A UNICEF Maldives survey of 105 students aged 16–20 found that nearly 89% believe smoking is very harmful, yet only 62% would confidently refuse a cigarette or vape from a friend and 63% think media and influencers make smoking look cool. The findings were released alongside the country's upcoming Generational Tobacco Ban, which takes effect on 1 November 2025.
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Maldivian youth are informed and motivated, but they face a complex web of social and digital pressures
A coordinated, youth-centred approach is essential to build a truly tobacco-free generation
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The survey, conducted among 105 students aged 16–20 to mark World No Tobacco Day 2025, found that
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nearly 89% of respondents believe smoking is “very harmful” to health.
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only 62% of respondents said they would confidently refuse if offered a cigarette or vape by a friend
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while 20% admitted they would feel awkward or unsure.
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The study found that 63% of youth believe media and influencers make smoking look “cool,”
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while 39% cited friends or family and
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31% cited social media as their main sources of exposure to tobacco use.
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Encouragingly, 78% of participants said the best way to help a friend quit is to connect them with a trusted adult or counsellor.
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Nearly half (46.6%) also highlighted the importance of positive role models and influencers in promoting tobacco-free lifestyles.
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The law, which takes effect on 1 November 2025, follows the December 2024 ban on importing, selling, and using e-cigarettes and vaping products.
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