PRESS RELEASE
Centre of Research Excellence: Indigenous Sovereignty and Smoking
In a pioneering study by the Centre of Research Excellence: Indigenous Sovereignty & Smoking, researchers have unveiled nuanced public perceptions of New Zealand’s innovative tobacco ‘endgame’ policies.
The study provides a critical examination of how New Zealand adults who smoke, particularly those not intending to quit by 2025, understand and react to these novel policies aimed at eradicating smoking.
Led by Dr. Marewa Glover and Emma Hurrell, the research delves into the complexities of policies such as denicotinization, a progressive increase in the legal age for cigarette purchases, and the prohibition of cigarette filters. These strategies, designed to curb cigarette demand and supply, have sparked a mix of support and concern among the public and politicians.
“Our research reveals a disconnect between the approval of the policies’ intentions and the methods proposed to achieve them,” explained Dr. Glover. “While there’s a general consensus on the importance of protecting future generations from smoking, the study highlights considerable apprehension about the potential unintended consequences of these untested policies.”
The study employed the Affective Propositional Evaluation model to analyse participants’ understanding, revealing novel policies like denicotinization and the ‘sinking lid’ on age of purchase elicited strong emotional responses and scepticism. Concerns ranged from the potential rise in illicit tobacco trade to adverse impacts on marginalized communities.
This research not only enriches the dialogue on tobacco ‘endgame’ strategies but also underscores the necessity for inclusive policy formation. “Our findings support the need for a more consultative approach, ensuring that policies are not only effective but also equitable,” Dr. Glover added.
“It’s crucial that we consider the real-world implications of these policies, including their effectiveness, potential drawbacks, and the equitable distribution of their impact.”
The Centre of Research Excellence: Indigenous Sovereignty & Smoking calls on policymakers to heed these insights, fostering a policy landscape that is informed, just, and considerate of all stakeholders.