Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.NEW YORK: The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has voiced deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in South Asia, warning that India’s baseless allegations against Pakistan are inflaming tensions in an already fragile regional environment.
In a joint statement issued by the OIC Group at the United Nations headquarters in New York, member states strongly criticized recent developments and urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint.
The OIC noted that India’s provocative rhetoric and unfounded claims against Pakistan were contributing to increased instability in South Asia. “Such baseless allegations are further fueling tensions in an already unstable region,” the group warned.
Reaffirming its principled position, the OIC condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of the perpetrators. However, it firmly rejected any attempts to associate terrorism with a particular country, religion, race, or culture.
“The OIC condemns terrorism wherever and in whatever form it takes, but rejects all attempts to link it to any specific nation or community,” the statement emphasized.
The OIC Group once again referred to longstanding UN Security Council resolutions on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, describing it as a core issue threatening peace and stability in the region.
“The unresolved dispute over Jammu and Kashmir remains a fundamental obstacle to peace in South Asia. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are still being denied their inalienable right to self-determination,” the statement read.
The joint statement also praised Pakistan’s continued display of restraint in the face of provocations and its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
“The OIC appreciates Pakistan’s mature approach and its consistent message that it does not seek confrontation,” the group said, calling it commendable.
The OIC further urged the international community, especially the UN Security Council and influential states, to take immediate and credible steps to de-escalate the situation. It called for a diplomatic push to prevent further deterioration and to foster dialogue between Pakistan and India.
Read more: Political Leadership Vows To Expose Indian Hand In Terrorism Inside Pakistan
