Tobacco.org

• Turkey will successfully implement smoking ban, experts believe  

Although global smoking figures become more frightening every day, the number of smokers and smoking-related deaths seems to be particularly alarming in Turkey. July 19 of this year will be listed as one of the turning points in Turkey's history since it will mark the beginning of “100 percent smoke-free air” in the country.

Despite some question marks raised by the public about the implementation of the ban as of July 19, the smoking ban, which went partially into effect on May 19, 2008 is due to be expanded to include restaurants, coffeehouses, cafeterias and bars, and as the day draws nearer, experts say the public will successfully adjust to the ban in a short time if everyone plays their part.

“Turkey will be the best example for the world with its two-year journey to enact and implement the law,” said Sylviane Ratte, a tobacco control expert at the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease. She explained France's 17-year journey to implement the law during a press conference held on Thursday by the National Cigarette and Health Committee (SSUK) in İstanbul. Stating that the first legislation was passed in 1991 in France to ban smoking in closed areas, she said Turkey has moved more quickly.

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