It’s been a strong week for tobacco harm reduction around the world. Advocates have been stepping up—speaking at hearings, publishing hard-hitting blogs, and challenging stigma where it matters most.

First up: South Africa. Michael Landl, Director of the World Vapers’ Alliance, participated in a key hearing hosted by the South African Parliament. Alongside the Lesedi Black Business Forum, WVA provided expert input on the controversial Tobacco and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill. The message was clear: smart, evidence-based regulation must protect access to safer alternatives, not block it. (Catch the full recap in WVA’s X thread.)

Meanwhile, Joseph Magero from the Campaign for Safer Alternatives (CASA) published a sharp warning in his latest blog. He explains how harsh or poorly enforced vape regulations in Africa could backfire, pushing products underground rather than improving public health:

“While policymakers often act intending to protect public health, especially youth, from the unknowns of new nicotine delivery systems, the unintended consequences of harsh, misaligned, or poorly enforced regulations could open the floodgates to black market activity.”

Another must-read is Maria Papaoioannoy’s article in Filter Magazine. She examines how stigma around nicotine use manifests in healthcare systems and harms people trying to improve their health by switching to safer products. Her piece combines sharp analysis with a personal perspective that reminds us what’s at stake.

Finally, Allison Boughner brings attention to the documentary You Don’t Know Nicotine, raising an important question: Will the world ever care about adults who use nicotine? In her blog, she reflects on the film’s message and the persistent public health blind spot regarding adult users.

From hearings to hard-hitting blogs, the THR movement is gaining momentum, and the message is getting louder: harm reduction saves lives.