Global Tobacco Industry Interference Index launched

The first ever Global Tobacco Interference report has been launched. For the first time, governments are scored on how well they are combating industry interference. The global survey was undertaken in 33 countries and reflects on how public health policies are protected from the industry’s meddling efforts, and how governments have pushed back against this influence.

The Tobacco Industry Interference Index report was published by STOP (Stopping Tobacco Organizations and Products) a watchdog in the industry. Each country is scored annually on overall level of industry influence as well as key indicators. The full report can be accessed here.

South Africa has released their own country report alongside other countries and however, ranked low with a score of 72 reflecting the seriousness of tobacco industry interference and how little protection South Africans have. Click here for a summary or full report.

Global efforts are still needed to support governments to protect their health policy from the tobacco industry.