Maldivian Youth Show Strong Awareness of Tobacco Risks, But Peer and Media Pressures Persist – UNICEF Survey

A UNICEF Maldives survey among 105 students aged 16–20 for World No Tobacco Day 2025 found that nearly 89% believe smoking is very harmful, but peer and media pressures persist. Only 62% would confidently refuse a cigarette or vape from a friend, and 20% would feel awkward. The survey also found that 63% of youth think media makes smoking look cool, and 39% cite friends/family as exposure sources. The government's Generational Tobacco Ban, ratified by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in May 2025, will take effect on 1 November 2025, prohibiting tobacco purchase/use for those born on/after 1 January 2007. A December 2024 ban on e-cigarettes and vaping products is already in place. UNICEF recommends youth-centred interventions, including 'Well-being Hangouts' and 'Speaking-Easy' sessions.

A UNICEF Maldives survey among 105 students aged 16–20 for World No Tobacco Day 2025 found that nearly 89% believe smoking is very harmful, but peer and media pressures persist. Only 62% would confidently refuse a cigarette or vape from a friend, and 20% would feel awkward. The survey also found that 63% of youth think media makes smoking look cool, and 39% cite friends/family as exposure sources. The government's Generational Tobacco Ban, ratified by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in May 2025, will take effect on 1 November 2025, prohibiting tobacco purchase/use for those born on/after 1 January 2007. A December 2024 ban on e-cigarettes and vaping products is already in place. UNICEF recommends youth-centred interventions, including 'Well-being Hangouts' and 'Speaking-Easy' sessions.

A UNICEF Maldives survey among 105 students aged 16–20 for World No Tobacco Day 2025 found that nearly 89% believe smoking is very harmful, but peer and media pressures persist. Only 62% would confidently refuse a cigarette or vape from a friend, and 20% would feel awkward. The survey also found that 63% of youth think media makes smoking look cool, and 39% cite friends/family as exposure sources. The government's Generational Tobacco Ban, ratified by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in May 2025, will take effect on 1 November 2025, prohibiting tobacco purchase/use for those born on/after 1 January 2007. A December 2024 ban on e-cigarettes and vaping products is already in place. UNICEF recommends youth-centred interventions, including 'Well-being Hangouts' and 'Speaking-Easy' sessions.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of health / youth.