In Part 2, Bengt Wiberg explains why EU nicotine policy should be science-based, not political. Drawing on Sweden’s success, he challenges cancer myths, youth claims, and makes the case for smart regulation to reduce smoking and save lives.

EU nicotine policy is under fire after claims that smoke-free nicotine products are as harmful as cigarettes. In GFN News, Joanna Junak interviews Bengt Wiberg of Stingfree AB on why experts dispute these statements, what science says about nicotine pouches, snus, and vaping, and how the debate could impact tobacco harm reduction and future EU regulation.

2026 could be a turning point for nicotine policy in Africa. In this episode of GFN News, Joanna Junak speaks with Joseph Magero, consumer advocate and Chairman of the Campaign for Safer Alternatives, about the challenges and opportunities for harm reduction, the impact of restrictive policies, and how countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria are shaping the future of safer nicotine products.

Topics Covered:

- Harm reduction vs tobacco control in Africa

- Regulation of vaping, heated products, and nicotine pouches

- Black market impacts and public health concerns

- How misinformation affects policy decisions

Stay informed on Africa’s nicotine policy landscape and what it means for smokers and regulators.

#GFN25 Science Discussion #11 | Research gaps, priorities and advocate readiness for THR in LMICs by GFN.TV

Public health often warns about tobacco industry interference—but what happens when tobacco control itself is captured by benevolent donors and non-profit organizations? In this GFN interview, economist Roger Bate explains why the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control is uniquely vulnerable to outside influence, how Bloomberg-funded NGOs shape policy agendas upstream, and why this system consistently excludes tobacco harm reduction despite strong evidence.

Featuring:

DR. ROGER BATE

Economist, Health Policy & Medicines

Nonresident Scholar, Intl. Center for Law & Economics

laweconcenter.org

@RogerBate3

Giusy Rita Maria La Rosa's systematic review and network meta-analysis of 36 randomised contol trials examines the oral health effects of non-combustible nicotine products. Dr Riccardo Polosa takes questions from GFN25 attendee's.

A new European Heart Journal report has reignited the debate over nicotine, heart health, and harm reduction. In this GFN News interview, Will Godfrey of Filter examines the claims that all forms of nicotine pose equal cardiovascular risk and the strong backlash from independent experts.

The discussion explores criticisms of the report’s scientific approach, evidence from population studies, and concerns that its conclusions could influence upcoming EU tobacco, taxation, and health policies. With Europe already facing the world’s highest smoking rates, the video asks whether this narrative could undermine harm reduction efforts and discourage smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives.

In another Science Lab session Dr Roberto Sussman provides a critiques of e-cigarette aerosol studies and discusses the methodological problems that persist with emission studies, such as overheating coils to produce aldehydes and manufacturing harms.

Six months after the UK’s disposable vape ban, questions remain over its real-world impact. Industry commentator Martin Cullip discusses weak enforcement funding, the rise of illegal sales, growing environmental awareness, and concerns that the ban could undermine smoking cessation and push some users back to cigarettes.

Part two of the interview will air on Wednesday, January 14th!

Join Joanna Junak and Martin Cullip as they break down the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill, expected to become law in 2026. We explore the generational smoking ban, vaping and nicotine regulations, and potential impacts on adult users. Learn why nicotine pouches, flavor restrictions, and ministerial powers are sparking debate, and how consumers and harm-reduction advocates can make their voices heard.

Stay informed about the latest UK tobacco and vaping policies and what they mean for smokers, vapers, and the future of safer nicotine products.