As World Vape Day approaches on 30 May, the World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA) has called out the World Health Organisation (WHO) for ignoring science and putting millions of lives at risk with its ongoing crusade against vaping and other harm reduction technologies.
While the WHO prepares for its annual World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, it continues to push outdated narratives and policies that actively undermine global efforts to end smoking, the consumer body alleged.
“Every year, the WHO’s World No Tobacco Day is a missed opportunity. Instead of celebrating innovation and life-saving nicotine alternatives, the WHO spreads fear and misinformation about vaping. Their anti-vaping agenda is not just wrong—it’s dangerous,” said Michael Landl, WVA director.
Landl noted that while countries that have embraced harm reduction, such as Sweden and the UK, are achieving record-low smoking rates and saving lives, the WHO continues to ignore overwhelming scientific evidence showing that vaping is at least 95 per cent less harmful than smoking and far more effective than traditional nicotine replacement therapies.
By calling for bans and restrictions, he alleged that the WHO is pushing people back to cigarettes and stalling progress towards a smoke-free future.
“The WHO should be leading the fight against smoking, not fighting against the very tools and technologies that are making the biggest difference. It’s time for the WHO to listen to science and the real-life experiences of millions who have quit smoking thanks to vaping,” added Landl.
World Vape Day is celebrated as a global counterpoint to World No Tobacco Day, giving a voice to consumers and experts who demand evidence-based policies and access to safer alternatives. The WVA urged policymakers to scrutinise the WHO’s position and focus on what truly works to reduce smoking-related harm.
