France introduces a ban on smoking near children: new restrictions in public places

French Minister of Labor, Health, Solidarity and Family Catherine Vautrin announced the introduction of smoking bans in public places where children may be present.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to MIXNEWS, the ban will come into effect on July 1, 2025. Thus, a new chapter in the fight against smoking in France has been opened, writes Euronews.

"A generation free from smoking is perhaps beginning now. Everywhere children are present, smoking should disappear. So no more cigarettes on beaches, in public parks and gardens, in sports facilities, at bus stops, and around schools. The ban will also apply to high schools, so that students don't smoke before classes", - said Catherine Vautrin in an interview with the newspaper Ouest France.

According to the minister, the freedom to smoke "ends where children's right to breathe clean air begins," adding that violation of this law will result in a fine of 135 euros.

However, the new ban will not extend to the terraces of cafes and bars. But not for long. The minister explains: "I am not going to stop at anything in the future."

Electronic cigarettes have also not yet fallen under the new ban, but Catherine Vautrin intends to "reduce the permissible nicotine content" in these products, as well as the number of flavors offered.