GINN Update | COP11 Geneva
Harm Reduction Voices Gain Ground
On Day 1 and Day 2 of COP11, harm reduction emerged as a contested but increasingly visible theme. A handful of delegations—including New Zealand, Serbia, Saint Kitts & Nevis, North Macedonia, Mozambique, Gambia, and the Philippines—explicitly defended risk‑proportionate regulation and consumer choice, while most others avoided or rejected the issue.
Day 1 – Setting the Tone
New Zealand presented scientific evidence that vaping and nicotine pouches reduce smoking rates—challenging the abstinence‑only narrative.
Serbia opposed prohibition, stressing sovereignty and science over ideology.
Saint Kitts & Nevis drew lessons from HIV harm reduction, urging a dedicated working group.
Civil society warned that ignoring harm reduction risks undermining public health progress.
Day 2 – Building Momentum
North Macedonia called for harm reduction to be formally included in COP dialogue, with transparency and working groups.
Mozambique supported science‑based regulation and rejected unproven measures.
Gambia encouraged innovation‑friendly, pragmatic regulation.
Philippines defended its national vape law as a balanced, evidence‑driven model.
NGOs and experts cited Sweden, the UK, and Japan as proof that regulated alternatives can dramatically reduce smoking rates.
Overall Commentary
Harm reduction advocates were a minority voice—but strategically significant. Their interventions introduced evidence, precedent, and credibility into the official record. Proposals for working groups and dialogue mechanisms suggest harm reduction may gain a foothold in future COP agendas.
GINN Commentary
At GINN, we see these interventions as a turning point. Calls for transparency, evidence‑based policymaking, and risk‑proportionate regulation show the global conversation is shifting. The challenge ahead is ensuring the FCTC process evolves to recognize harm reduction not as an afterthought, but as a core pillar of tobacco control.
Our Takeaway
Harm reduction is no longer at the margins—it’s firmly on the table. GINN will continue to amplify these voices, build coalitions, and push for policies that reflect science, sovereignty, and consumer choice.