Every year, smoking kills over 260,000 Russians. And even though half the Russian population (as per Ria Navosti) favour a ban on smoking, the country is yet to enact a law.
In 2004, Russia's State Duma adopted a law limiting smoking of tobacco. It prohibited retail sale of tobacco products in healthcare, cultural, sports and educational institutions, and within a 100-meter radius from them.
The law also bans smoking at work, in public transport, on board aircraft if the flight is shorter than three hours, in closed sports facilities and in government buildings, except in specially designated areas.
However, the legislation is yet to come to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev for approval.
Image: A fan of the Russian team cheers with a cigarette.
Photograph: Michael Gottschalk/AFP/Getty Images
Also read: Kick the butt before you kick the bucket!
Advertisement
