BERLIN, GERMANY. 22 May 2021 – Vapers from Germany and around Europe took to the streets of Berlin today to raise their voices and fight for their rights. The unique Covid-friendly demo was organised by the World Vapers’ Alliance to protest against the proposed tax increase on ‘e-liquids’ being debated in the German Parliament, as well as EU legislation like Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. These laws are a major threat to the more than two million vapers in Germany, who have already switched from cigarettes.

Meanwhile, a report of the European Commission released earlier this week opens the doors for flavour bans and major price increases at EU level, while attributing lower smoking rates in Europe to prohibitionist policies, rather than reduced harm products like vaping. 

Director of the World Vapers’ Alliance, Michael Landl, said:

‘Vaping has already saved millions of lives. Yet policymakers and tobacco control advocates refuse to see reality and would rather put their own ideology ahead of saving lives. These proposed new laws will be a major set-back for vapers and for smokers who want to quit. That’s why our members felt obliged to act, and to bring the Vape Army to the streets of Berlin in this covid-friendly demo. 

It is essential for the health of citizens that the German Government and the EU institutions change course and back vaping as a less harmful alternative to smoking. 

During the COVID-friendly protest vapers from Germany and around Europe stood together in front of the iconic Brandenburg Gate. You can find more photos of the event here.

Note: Photos are available for use for media with no reproduction fee. Please credit photo to Maximilian Markowski