Saving Young Generations from Tobacco Hazards through Sustainable Measures in Pakistan
The Saving Young Generations from Tobacco Hazards project is a comprehensive initiative to protect children and youth from the dangers of tobacco consumption. Through policy advocacy, youth mobilization, media engagement, and research-driven strategies, the project aims to reduce tobacco use among young people, strengthen tobacco control policies, and ensure a healthier, tobacco-free future for Pakistan.
The project is structured around four key pillars, aligning with global health standards such as the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).
Policy Advocacy & Legislative Reforms
SPARC works to strengthen tobacco control laws and policies to prevent tobacco use among children and youth.
Youth Mobilization & Awareness
SPARC empowers young people to become advocates for a tobacco-free future through education and activism.
Sustainable Funding for Tobacco Control
To ensure long-term impact, SPARC advocates for sustainable funding mechanisms for tobacco control efforts.
Restricting Tobacco Advertising, Promotion & Sponsorship (TAPS)
SPARC works to eliminate tobacco advertising targeting children and youth, in line with WHO FCTC guidelines.
Key Achievements:
Advocated for the regulation of emerging tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and novel nicotine-based items, preventing their accessibility to minors.Blocked the introduction of the 10-stick cigarette pack, which would have made tobacco more affordable and accessible to youth.Pushed for higher tobacco taxation to discourage smoking and generate revenue for public health initiatives.Strengthened government commitment to tobacco control, ensuring continuous policy discussions and legislative improvements.
Key Achievements:
Established Youth Advocates Against Tobacco (YAAT) clubs, enabling young people to lead tobacco control campaigns.Conducted school outreach programs, educating students on tobacco hazards, industry tactics, and prevention strategies.Launched youth-led advocacy efforts to demand higher tobacco taxes and stricter regulations.Trained young leaders to engage with policymakers, the media, and local communities to promote anti-tobacco initiatives.
Key Achievements:
Proposed a dedicated tobacco tax levy to fund public health programs, anti-smoking campaigns, and youth prevention initiatives.Conducted policy dialogues with government officials, health experts, and civil society organizations to push for sustainable funding.Engaged the media and the public in discussions on the importance of allocating tobacco tax revenues to health and awareness programs.
Key Achievements:
Conducted the Tiny Targets Survey, revealing how the tobacco industry markets its products to children through strategic advertising near schools.Advocated for a complete ban on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship, reducing youth exposure to harmful marketing.Organized media briefings and public awareness campaigns, ensuring continuous pressure on policymakers to enforce stricter TAPS regulations.Collaborated with health organizations and legal experts to push for stronger enforcement of existing laws against tobacco advertising.
Impact & Sustainability
Through multi-level advocacy, research, and youth engagement, the project has:Prevented harmful tobacco products from entering the market.
Empowered youth to take a leadership role in tobacco control efforts.Maintained national discussions on the importance of higher tobacco taxation.Raised public awareness about the deceptive tactics of the tobacco industry.Advocated for sustainable funding models to support tobacco control initiatives.
Future Directions
Strengthening tobacco control laws through continued policy advocacy.Expanding youth-led initiatives to create a nationwide anti-tobacco movement.Enhancing collaborations with government bodies, health professionals, and civil society groups.Securing dedicated funding for tobacco control efforts to ensure long-term impact.The Saving Young Generations from Tobacco Hazards project is a sustained effort to protect children and youth from tobacco-related harm. Through strategic advocacy, youth empowerment, and policy interventions, SPARC continues to shape a healthier, tobacco-free Pakistan for future generations.
