Inside the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control: A Landmark WHO Treaty

Public Health Insight

The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) might not make headlines today, but it was the first treaty negotiated under the World Health Organization—and it changed the global public health landscape forever.

In this episode of the Public Health Insight Podcast, Dr. Garry Aslanyan returns to unpack the story behind this groundbreaking treaty. We explore how the FCTC was negotiated in an era before Zoom calls and WhatsApp, the political and economic tensions that shaped its development, and how it continues to influence tobacco control policies worldwide—despite evolving challenges like vaping, flavored products, and social media marketing.

From legal battles with Big Tobacco to global policy coordination, we break down why this treaty still matters for local public health professionals.

References for Our Discussion

◼️TDR

◼️Global Health Matters Podcast

Guest

◼️Dr Garry Aslanyan

Host(s) & Producer(s)

◼️ Gordon Thane, BMSc, MPH, PMP®

Production Notes

◼️ Music from Johnny Harris x Tom Fox: The Music Room

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