France is set to implement a significant ban on smoking in outdoor spaces frequented by children, including beaches, parks, and school zones, starting July 1. Health and family minister Catherine Vautrin emphasized that "Tobacco must disappear where there are children," reinforcing the idea that children's right to clean air should take precedence over smoking freedom. Violating the ban may result in a €135 fine, with regular police enforcing the rules alongside a push for self-regulation among citizens. While electronic cigarettes won't be included in the ban, Vautrin is working on regulating their nicotine content further.
Currently, about 23.1% of the French population smokes daily, the lowest rate recorded, despite over 75,000 annual tobacco-related deaths. Smoking has already been banned in restaurants and nightclubs since 2008, and while comprehensive public smoking bans were previously discussed, many municipalities have proactively established non-smoking areas. A recent survey shows nearly 80% of French citizens favor restrictions on smoking in public spaces, highlighting a cultural shift towards healthier living environments.