A meeting between the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR), National Assembly of Pakistan, and the Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) was held in the Parliament House to discuss strengthening tobacco control measures for the protection of children.

The meeting was chaired by the Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Mr. Danyal Chaudhary, MNA, and Federal Coordinator, PCCR. He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to protect children from tobacco and emerging nicotine products, particularly vaping and nicotine pouches, and highlighted the importance of awareness among children, parents and teachers.

The meeting discussed strengthening health warnings, regulating the sale and display of tobacco products around educational institutions, increasing tobacco taxation, addressing tobacco smuggling and improving enforcement of existing regulations. Participants also emphasized the need for child-focused awareness campaigns and stronger public messaging on the health risks associated with tobacco use.

It was agreed that PCCR and SPARC would collaborate on awareness and parliamentary engagement initiatives. SPARC will share relevant awareness materials and regional comparative analysis on graphical health warnings with Members of Parliament. A dedicated briefing session for parliamentarians will also be organized to enhance understanding of tobacco control measures.

The participants further agreed to explore engagement with PEMRA for child-focused awareness content and to coordinate with relevant district authorities for effective implementation of tobacco control measures.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of PCCR and SPARC to strengthening tobacco control efforts and protecting children from tobacco and nicotine addiction.