Smoke free environment policies at municipal level in Wallonia: orienting vulnerable populations

European Union Member States are implementing at present the European Tobacco Directive 2014/40. More, the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), gives them relevant tools on policies for signatory countries. Local authorities can mobilize considerable resources and skills in protecting citizens from tobacco. Security and waste on public roads are often hot topics in municipalities, smoking representing a long-term problem, that can constantly mobilizes families, schools, sports associations, employers, businesses, etc., It is there possible to reach people directly in their day-to-day life, for example at school, at their work place, social centres or in the recreational areas. Also, when conditions are created they can promote tobacco-free living spaces, protect residents from passive smoking and help ensure that the absence of tobacco is considered the norm. Regarding the different competences municipalities in health, the presentation proposes to explore different aspects and opportunaties of tobacco control at local level. A white book, reporting a two years consultation of experts, decidors, professionnals and citizens and exploring different tobacco control possible measures will be presented. It include a self-evaluation tool for municipalities. Funding Statement: Research and service funding comes from the Walloon Plan against Tobacco (Official Belgium regional Health public sector)