# Tobacco control in complex emergencies: Policy case study of Ukraine

## TL;DR

This study examines how Ukraine maintained and improved tobacco control policies during the Russian invasion, despite the challenges of war.

## Contribution

The paper provides a novel policy case study on tobacco control in a complex emergency, highlighting Ukraine’s resilience and international support.

## Key findings

- Ukraine strengthened tobacco control policies like taxation and health warnings despite the war.
- International collaboration and EU integration supported Ukraine’s adherence to WHO FCTC guidelines.
- Tobacco industry efforts to weaken regulations remain a significant threat.

## Abstract

This policy case study evaluates Ukraine’s implementation of tobacco control measures, using guidance from the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) and its COP8 decision during the ongoing Russian invasion. The study assesses Ukraine’s efforts across three pillars: 1) surveillance, 2) legislation and public health gains, and 3) adherence to the WHO FCTC Article 5.3. Despite war-related disruptions and a humanitarian crisis, Ukraine has upheld and strengthened policies like tobacco taxation, new pictorial health warnings on cigarette packs, advertising bans, and smoking restrictions, largely due to strong policy leadership and international collaborations driven by the European Union integration. Successes and political leadership over the past decade have reinforced Ukraine’s compliance with the WHO FCTC. However, continued threats from the tobacco industry, especially efforts to weaken legislation and obstruct enforcement of regulations on new and emerging nicotine and tobacco products, remain a serious concern. This analysis underscores the vital role of a resilient public health infrastructure and sustained international support in protecting tobacco control progress, particularly during times of crisis.