Parliament has approved the Declaration on reducing the consumption of tobacco products, promoting the concept of a “tobacco‑free Parliament,” and safeguarding young people’s right to a healthy life. The initiative was put forward by Vladimir Odnostalco, MP from the Socialist Party faction, and was supported by deputies from all parliamentary groups.

The document reaffirms the authorities’ commitment to strengthening public policies aimed at preventing and combating smoking and nicotine addiction, amid rising consumption of tobacco and nicotine products, especially among young people and minors. The Declaration also highlights the need for a national strategy on addiction prevention and treatment, and for recognizing smoking as a form of dependence and a chronic condition requiring specialized medical and therapeutic assistance.

MPs expressed concern over the rapid increase in the use of new tobacco and nicotine products among minors and young adults. The signatories condemn aggressive marketing practices targeting this demographic through digital platforms, social media, appealing flavours, and product design.

The Declaration stresses that public institutions have a responsibility to promote social standards and moral benchmarks for society as a whole. Parliament notes that educating a healthy generation is incompatible with state tolerance toward any form of addiction and encourages institutions to create conditions that support a healthy lifestyle.

According to statistical data, the number of active smokers in the Republic of Moldova is approximately 620,000 people. Around 25.5% of individuals aged over 15 are active smokers. Each year, roughly 6,000 people die from diseases associated with tobacco use or exposure to second‑hand smoke.