Ensp, the european network for smoking and tobacco prevention. Objectives and successes

The European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention is an international non-profit organization striving for a smoke- free Europe. Its goal is a tobacco-free Europe by 2040. Advancing smoke-free policies in all European States is the key strategy to achieve this goal. In 2010 several important ENSP’s actions contributed significantly to tobacco control and three in particular: the “ENSP Total Ban with No Exceptions Declaration”, the “Towards a Tobacco-free Europe” meeting and the “Award of ENSP as an official observer in the Conference of the Parties (WHO for FCTC, Punta del Este, Uruguay 2010). The “Total Ban with No Exceptions Declaration” is document which advocates protection from exposure to tobacco smoke for all European citizens; only total smoke-free laws can improve health and help to change smoking behaviour. The Italian situation is complex and Italy must avoid to remain isolated in the European context.