This presentation will review the history and development of policy changes in the Pacific islands over the last 20 years.

Discussion:

While there had been a number of early forays in tobacco control in tobacco work, more formal efforts to introduce tobacco control policy and legislation begin only in the 1980's. Among the early work was the introduction of legislation in the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea in 1987-8. The presentation will track the various changes leading up to the support for and development of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. In this connection the role of particular people and agencies including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), National Health Departments and the work of Non-Government Organisations (NGO's) will be reviewed, along with examples of their particular focus and function.

Conclusion:

The presentation will conclude with a review of key issues which can support the development of and support for effective tobacco control policy. This will include a recommendation that more formal networks be established including support for government and NGO's in the Pacific.

Presentation withdrawn