“Smoking in closed and certain open areas was banned. What happened to that law?”
In this post we would like to share an excerpt from an article by Birgül AKGÜL, a prominent psychologist who writes for some publications and internet sites active in the tourism sector – hoping it will trigger some important and valuable thoughts (evaluations) in our minds.
“Before starting to write, I did a brief research on the scope of Law No. 4207. Of course, the law was drafted in such a way that it allowed for certain areas to be relaxed and loosened up, making it problematic from the start. Even those with windows barely larger than bathroom windows can say, “But look, we have an open roof thing here,” thanks to the ambiguous language used.
On the Ministry of Health’s website, the following is written about the law: “The consumption of tobacco products is a widespread habit and a serious public health problem in our country. The consumption of these products affects not only the users but also those who are passively exposed to tobacco smoke. The presence of our children and young people in daily life alongside adults who consume tobacco products and their tendency to imitate them poses a threat to the health of future generations. As it is known, Law No. 4207 on the Prevention and Control of the Harms of Tobacco Products was enacted to protect individuals and future generations from the harms of tobacco products and to ensure that everyone can breathe clean air, one of the most basic rights. Significant amendments were made with Law No. 5727. As a result, our country has taken important steps in protecting against the harms of tobacco products and has become one of the few countries to implement such regulatory legislation.”
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However, unfortunately, the competent authorities (i.e., the state) do not fully enforce this law. Since the state does not enforce it, we should. Through a sectoral movement, let’s create smoking areas in all accommodation facilities and prevent smoking outside these areas. Many hotels already implement this, but the areas are insufficient and should be expanded. Let’s not be afraid of tourists getting angry or complaining. When you say it’s prohibited, they comply; the real problem lies in our own moral values. Why do we not follow the rules? Why do we break the bans?
As a Turkish citizen who pays taxes every month, works, and produces, I demand that Law No. 4207 on the Prevention and Control of the Harms of Tobacco Products be developed, revised, implemented, and enforced, taking into account grievances, and that tobacco products be controlled due to their harm to the environment and the threat they pose to public health.”
Author: Birgül Akgül (turizmguncel.com)
