New Smoking Bans in Effect in Greece

Greece has the highest rate of tobacco consumption (more than 40 percent of Greek adults smoke) in the European Union. In an attempt to cut down on these shocking rates, a new law went into effect September 1, 2010, that bans tobacco advertising and outlaws smoking in enclosed public areas. Those who break the law could be fined between 50 and 400 euros, and businesses could be fined up to 10,000 euros or lose their license.

The Greek government said they hope to protect people’s health with the new bans. Prime Minister George Papandreou said that the new law is aimed at changing attitudes, norms, and behavior to improve quality of life in Greece. He added that an anti-smoking board game will be distributed to children.

Previous efforts to curb smoking in Greece haven’t been very successful, and heavy tax increases haven’t dissuaded people from smoking. The country burns through 32 billion cigarettes per year, costing 4.2 billion euros. Health costs to the country as a result of smoking are about 2 billion euros.

Partial bans were attempted last year, but they were largely ignored, which led to the new, more stringent laws.

Source: BBC News, Greece in new crackdown on smokers and tobacco ads, September 1, 2010