Framework Convention on Tobacco Control

The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), the first ever public health treaty, entered into force on February 27, 2005. The FCTC is an international response to an international problem. The spread of the tobacco epidemic is recognized as a global concern, with serious consequences for public health; and the FCTC is the first international legal instrument designed to promote multilateral cooperation and national action to reduce the growth and spread of tobacco use.

The FCTC was negotiated among all of the World Health Organization's (WHO's) 190 Member States and, after three years of intense negotiations, was adopted in May 2003. Canada, already a world pacesetter in tobacco control, played a leadership role in the development and negotiation of the FCTC. In fact, many of the articles and obligations of the treaty are modelled on Canadian legislation.

Tobacco use is the world's leading cause of preventable illness, disability and premature death. The FCTC demonstrates the commitment on the part of all WHO Member States to address this global epidemic and reduce tobacco use.

To view the complete text, consult WHO's Web site.

Consult also the FCTC Ratification News release.