Europe Public Health First: France Moves to Restrict Smoking in Shared Spaces

France will begin enforcing a ban on smoking in several public spaces from July 1, including beaches, parks, school zones, bus stops, and sports areas — a move aimed at protecting children and reducing tobacco-related death

• The ban applies to beaches, public parks, gardens, school areas, and bus shelters across the country.
• E-cigarettes and outdoor café terraces are exempt from the restrictions.
• Health Minister Catherine Vautrin: “Where there are children, tobacco must disappear.”
• Smoking causes around 200 deaths daily in France, according to government data.
• France joins a growing list of European countries, including Sweden, Spain, and the UK, with similar public smoking bans.
• Daily smoking in France is at a historic low, with fewer than 25% of adults smoking regularly.

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France’s move reflects a broader continental shift toward stricter public health regulations. While enforcement and public reception will be watched closely, the policy sends a clear message: the era of smoking in family-friendly public spaces is drawing to a close.