Ash Wales Communicate, Collaborate, Celebrate; Conference 2010

Plenary Speakers

Deborah ArnottChief Executive – ASH

Abstract Title: Understanding the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and the Role of the Framework Convention Alliance

The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) is the world’s first global public health treaty. It is also the first treaty negotiated under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO). The treaty entered into force in February 2005. It was signed by 169 of the 192 WHO member states and 156 WHO member states have become parties to the convention. The UK is a party to the Treaty and as such has responsibilities to ensure its commitment to tackling tobacco use address each of the articles developed as part of the international effort to reduce global tobacco use. The Framework Convention Alliance is a membership alliance of more than 350 non-government organisations from over 100 countries. The FCA has provided rigorous policy advice and assists in both the negotiation and implementation of the FCTC. Due to the strength of the FCA membership it is clear that civil society now occupies a position of strength in the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) negotiations.

The presentation will outline the articles in the FCTC and detail what they mean for the UK. It will also outline how third sector organizations in the UK are contributing to the work of the FCA.

Author Biography:

Deborah Arnott has been the Chief Executive of ASH, London (UK) since May 2003. She is a member of the Royal College of Physicians Tobacco Advisory Group and of the Programme Development Group for the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) public health programme guidance on the best provision of smoking cessation services.