The Bahraini Parliament is set to debate a government bill proposing harsher penalties for violations of the Kingdom’s anti-smoking law. The proposed amendment aims to target the import, distribution, and sale of herbal and non-herbal substances used as tobacco alternatives, even if nicotine-free. Offenders could face imprisonment for up to one year and fines ranging from 1,000 to 100,000 Bahraini dinars, a significant increase from the current law.
The amendment specifically prohibits various substances, including herbal materials containing addictive substances used as tobacco substitutes, such as suika, betel quid, tambaku, and areca nut. Non-herbal substances often used with herbal materials during chewing, like chuna, are also included in the ban. The Ministry of Health reported 118 violations of this article between January 2022 and June 2024, highlighting the need for stricter penalties to protect public health and the environment.
The Bahrain Anti-Smoking Society has expressed full support for the bill, citing its alignment with the organisation’s strategic goals since its inception in 1979. The Society sees the proposed amendments as a crucial step in line with World Health Organisation recommendations to protect individuals and society from the dangers of smoking, both direct and passive. The Parliament’s Services Committee has discussed the proposal and recommended its approval, underscoring the importance of these stricter penalties in deterring harmful practices.
The proposed amendment to the anti-smoking law in Bahrain reflects a growing concern for public health and the environment. By targeting the import, distribution, and sale of tobacco alternatives, the government aims to curb harmful practices that can have long-lasting effects on individuals and society as a whole. With stricter penalties in place, the hope is to deter offenders and protect the well-being of the population.
The Ministry of Health’s assessment of the bill underscores the urgency of implementing these stricter penalties to mitigate the negative impacts of smoking-related substances. By imposing imprisonment and hefty fines, the government seeks to send a clear message that violations of the anti-smoking law will not be tolerated. These measures are essential in safeguarding public health and promoting a smoke-free environment for all residents of Bahrain.
The support from the Bahrain Anti-Smoking Society and the alignment with WHO recommendations further solidify the importance of this proposed amendment. By taking a proactive stance against smoking and its harmful effects, Bahrain is demonstrating its commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its citizens. As the Parliament debates and potentially approves these amendments, it signals a significant step forward in the fight against smoking and its associated dangers. This legislation could have far-reaching implications for public health in Bahrain and set a strong precedent for other countries looking to tackle the issue of smoking within their borders.
