Austria Rejects EU Proposal for Expanded Smoke-Free Zones

Austria Rejects EU Proposal for Expanded Smoke-Free Zones

Image: APA/Helmut Fohringer

 

A recommendation from the EU Commission to expand smoke-free zones has ignited considerable opposition in Austria.

Announced in mid-September, the proposal calls for a smoking ban in areas frequented by children, including playgrounds, swimming pools, schools, and the outdoor sections of restaurants. While the recommendation is non-binding for EU member states, the Commission urges them to consider implementing relevant measures based on their national circumstances.

According to the Austrian Health Ministry, some 21% of people in Austria are daily smokers.

MEP reaction

Austrian MEPs across the political spectrum have expressed their disapproval of further restrictions. Petra Steger (Freedom Party, FPÖ) and Lukas Mandl (People’s Party, ÖVP) both rejected the Commission’s proposal, arguing that it is not within the Commission’s remit to impose such regulations.

Meanwhile, Andreas Schieder (Social Democrats, SPÖ), Thomas Waitz (Greens), and Helmut Brandstätter (NEOS) acknowledged the importance of reducing smoking rates but advocated for education and awareness campaigns rather than outright bans.

Government position

Austria has no plans to introduce a blanket smoking ban in outdoor spaces, according to the Health Ministry, which has identified the regulation of nicotine pouches and other new tobacco products as a priority due to their rising popularity among young people.

Health Minister Johannes Rauch’s office highlighted that many of the EU Commission’s recommendations have already been implemented in Austria. Since 2018, a strict smoking ban has been enforced in outdoor areas of schools and childcare facilities. Smoking in covered outdoor dining areas has only been allowed since 2019, provided at least 50% of the sides remain open for adequate air circulation. Smoking is also strictly prohibited in public transport, such as taxis and coaches, as well as in private vehicles with minors present. Additionally, advertising and sponsorship for tobacco products are entirely banned.

Support from activists

The Non-Smokers’ Protection Association has voiced support for the Commission’s recommendations. Robert Rockenbauer of the association remarked that the EU’s suggestions “completely align with the long-standing demands” of the association and argued that a smoking ban in public spaces, such as swimming pools, parks, and sunbathing areas, is long overdue. Rockenbauer also condemned smoking at bus stops, stating, “Here, the last puff is often exhaled just before boarding the bus or train, much to the detriment of those who have chosen a smoke-free mode of transport.” The association advocates for a smoking ban “wherever multiple people gather.”

The Commission’s recent recommendation builds on a similar proposal from 2009, suggesting not only the extension of smoke-free zones but also the inclusion of alternative tobacco products, such as electronic cigarettes. The Commission highlighted that these products can also pose health risks to non-users.

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