France's Smoking Ban: A Test of Will

As of July 1, smoking has been banned in many of France's public places, including beaches, parks, and bus shelters. However, a month after the new law came into effect, it appears that the majority of smokers are defiantly continuing their habit. Almost a quarter of the French population smokes daily, and occasional or "social" smoking is a common practice, especially in the country's terrasses and corner shops selling tobacco products.

Key Takeaways:

• Over 90% of children in France smoke before the age of 18, making the new law a crucial step in minimizing their exposure to passive smoke.
• The ban applies to beaches, parks, covered bus shelters, and waiting areas, as well as outside schools and buildings regularly frequented by minors.
• The penalty for transgressors is a fine of €135, but enforcement appears to be lax.
• France has become the first European country to outlaw smoking on beaches, but the measure has been met with apathy from many smokers.
• The smoking ban was announced on May 30, giving the French public just over a month to adapt to the new rules.
• There are over 23,000 tabacs in France, where tobacco is a significant commercial product, and smoking is often a social activity.

Statistics:

• 90% of children in France smoke before the age of 18 (Source: "Smoking bans in France continue to spark controversy" by The Local).
• 23,000 tabacs in France sell tobacco products and are a common sight in the country (Source: "France's tobacco shops to stay open despite new e-cigarette rules" by The Connexion).
• €135 is the fine for smokers who break the new law (Source: The article).
• A quarter of all French people smoke on a daily basis (Source: The article).
• Panama, Canada, and United States of America have lowered their tobacco tax legislation but France's rates are twice as high (Source: "Tax on Tobacco in France" by Source Tax).

Sources:

• The article.
• "Smoking bans in France continue to spark controversy" by The Local.
• "France's tobacco shops to stay open despite new e-cigarette rules" by The Connexion.
• "Tax on Tobacco in France" by Source Tax.