14.11.2025, Brussels – Several EU member states have pushed back against extreme anti-vaping and anti-nicotine measures, leading to a notable shift in the EU’s official position ahead of the upcoming WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control meeting (COP11) in Geneva. Revealed by “Clearing The Air,” the EU member states agreed not to support any bans during COP11.

That means the EU will now be unable to support COP resolutions that contain language permitting product bans.

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

“This shift in the EU position is a significant win for common sense. It marks a clear rejection of unfounded bans disguised as health policy. Consumers and sensible governments have pushed back, ensuring that regulatory language reflects reality instead of ideology. This is a vital step to preserving access to less harmful nicotine products that millions rely on. While the worst has been avoided, the final position still does not go far enough to protect consumer choice and encourage harm reduction.”

Nevertheless, the growing resistance within the EU against the Commission’s anti-harm reduction stance is encouraging. Member states must maintain this evidence-based approach during upcoming regulatory discussions, including the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan and revisions of the Tobacco Excise and Tobacco Products Directives.

While hardliners at the Commission, WHO, and Bloomberg-funded groups continue to push an ideology that ignores science, this shift in the EU position for COP11 shows their influence is not absolute. Member states prioritising evidence over ideology must resist policies that would block millions of smokers from accessing less harmful products that could save their lives.