A delegation from Ecuador, led by Bernardo Darquea, Vice Minister of Governance at the Ministry of Public Health, is participating in the Eleventh Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The event is taking place in Switzerland from November 17 to 22, 2025.
The conference brings together more than 1,400 delegates representing 183 governments, international organizations, and civil society. Key topics under discussion include tobacco control and the use of new products such as vapes, particularly among young people.
During his address, Vice Minister Darquea expressed gratitude to the Secretariat for presenting a report that highlights significant progress in implementing the Framework Convention. He noted that despite challenges in tobacco control efforts, Ecuador has strengthened its legal framework and institutional capacities.
“Ecuador has consolidated significant advances, such as the current Organic Law for Regulation and Control of Tobacco and, in December 2024 we issued the General Regulation to the Organic Law on Mental Health, where we prioritize mental health over commercial interests; furthermore we protect public policies against interference from industries with possible conflicts of interest,” said Vice Minister Bernardo Darquea.
In addition to existing legislation, Ecuador introduced its Fourteenth Round of Health Warnings for tobacco product packaging in July 2025. This measure requires graphic and textual warnings covering 60% of main package surfaces and includes new images and messages aimed at preventing tobacco use among adolescents and young people.
According to Ecuador’s Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), 13% of adolescents aged 13 to 15 use tobacco products. Of these youths, nearly one-third have considered quitting after seeing warning labels on packaging.
Andrew Black, Acting Head of the Secretariat for the WHO FCTC, stated: “The COP and MOP provide a platform for parties to review and enhance implementation of the WHO FCTC and Protocol. At these meetings, countries come together to energize international cooperation and foster political will needed to tackle the global tobacco epidemic that claims more than seven million lives each year.”
Ecuador reiterated its appreciation for technical support from the Secretariat and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening implementation of the Framework Convention through evidence-based public policies, international cooperation, and strong institutional coordination led by its Ministry of Public Health. The goal is to move toward a tobacco-free generation while building healthier environments for future generations.
