The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a groundbreaking initiative named the “3 by 35” Initiative, advocating for a significant increase in health taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by 50% before 2035. This move aims to combat the surge in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) globally and generate crucial public revenue. NCDs such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are responsible for the majority of deaths worldwide, highlighting the urgency of this initiative.
Dr. Jeremy Farrar, Assistant Director-General at WHO, emphasized the effectiveness of health taxes in reducing the consumption of harmful products and generating revenue for vital sectors like healthcare and education. The Initiative targets to raise $1 trillion over the next decade, building on the success of previous tax increases on tobacco in nearly 140 countries between 2012 and 2022, showcasing the feasibility of significant change on a global scale.
While countries like Colombia and South Africa have witnessed positive outcomes from implementing health taxes, some nations still incentivize industries detrimental to public health, such as tobacco. Long-term agreements with these industries that hinder tobacco tax increments can impede national health objectives. WHO urges governments to reconsider such exemptions to uphold effective tobacco control measures and safeguard public health.
The success of the “3 by 35” Initiative hinges on robust collaboration among global partners led by WHO. These partners offer expertise, policy guidance, and practical experience to assist countries in implementing health taxes effectively. By fostering awareness and support at the national level, these organizations aim to promote the advantages of health taxes and aid countries in transitioning towards self-sustaining health systems.
Many countries are looking to WHO for direction in establishing self-reliant, domestically funded health systems. The “3 by 35” Initiative outlines key action areas to help countries adopt proven health policies and implement best practices, including reducing harmful consumption, raising revenue for essential programs, and garnering broad political support across various sectors.
WHO calls on countries, civil society, and development partners to endorse the “3 by 35” Initiative and embrace fairer taxation strategies that prioritize health and advance progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. By implementing health taxes effectively, countries can curb NCDs, save lives, and bolster critical sectors while ensuring sustainable health financing for the future.
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