On 31 May, the President of México, the Honorable Andrés Manuel López Obrador received special recognition from the World Health Organization (WHO) for remarkable contributions to advance Mexico’s tobacco control measures. The President’s leadership has catalyzed the most significant progress in the Americas region over the past five years and represents a milestone at the national level.
This award is one of two special prizes granted by WHO´s Director General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom, in recognition of accomplishments in or exceptional contributions to tobacco control. President López Obrador was awarded for his strong determination at the highest political level and commitment to prioritizing public health over all else.
By amending its Law, Mexico closed the gaps in its smoke free and emissions regulatory framework, becoming the Americas’ ninth country to enact a total ban on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS). Today, Mexico meets four of six MPOWER measures in what is considered the highest level of achievement. In addition, the country issued a new Presidential Decree, reaffirming the novel products import/export ban.
“Mexico has made significant progress in the last year and a half, compared to any other country in the Americas region,” said Gustavo Sóñora, The Union's Regional Director for the Americas.” President López Obrador has a clear, consistent approach to tobacco control, and he consistently prioritizes the Mexican population’s health over tobacco industry profits.”
The President’s achievements were strongly supported and facilitated by the National Commission against Addictions (CONADIC) which is one of The Union’s strategic partners in tobacco control.
“The Union applauds President Lopez Obrador, for this well-deserved acknowledgment,” said Gan Quan, Director, Tobacco Control Department at The Union. “Despite aggressive tobacco industry attempts to interfere in public policy and legislation, he remained undeterred. The Union looks forward to continued partnership with the Mexican government as it continues to implement the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)."