The Pan American Health Organization has concluded the second edition of its Executive Tobacco Control Program for PAHO/WHO Representatives, strengthening leadership capacity to address tobacco control challenges and the wider burden of noncommunicable diseases across the Americas.
The program brought together PAHO/WHO Representatives from twelve country offices across South America, Central America and the Caribbean. Held in Washington, D.C., the training focused on strategic leadership, policy advocacy, negotiation and technical knowledge needed to support stronger tobacco control policies in the region.
The initiative builds on a pioneering program launched in 2024, making the Region of the Americas the first WHO region to develop a tobacco control leadership training program specifically for its country representatives.
Organized in coordination with WHO, the program included experts from PAHO and WHO technical units, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Johns Hopkins University, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and other partner organizations.
Participants explored key public health issues, including electronic cigarettes, fiscal policies for health and measures to protect children and adolescents from tobacco industry marketing strategies. The program also addressed how countries can respond to misinformation and industry interference.
PAHO emphasized that lessons from tobacco control can also support broader action against noncommunicable diseases. Strategies such as multisectoral policymaking, evidence-based regulation, strategic communication and response to commercial influence are important for protecting public health.
As heads of PAHO/WHO Country Offices, representatives play a key role in supporting governments, parliaments, civil society, academia and the media. Their leadership helps translate scientific evidence into effective public policies that reduce tobacco use and protect communities.
The 2026 program also included dedicated media training to help participants communicate tobacco control messages clearly and confidently. The session focused on handling difficult questions, engaging with journalists and using media outreach to support public health advocacy.
Country Offices are important actors in advancing the noncommunicable disease agenda. Their technical credibility and convening power allow them to create dialogue, build partnerships and support countries in designing and implementing evidence-based policies.
The program highlighted the need for a multisectoral and interdisciplinary approach to tobacco control. This includes working with health authorities, lawmakers, civil society, academic institutions and international partners to address complex regulatory challenges.
PAHO also noted that countries are supported by a broad regional network of allies. These include technical experts, academic institutions, civil society organizations and international partners that provide assistance in legislation, health economics, public policy monitoring and strategic communication.
Overall, the Executive Tobacco Control Program represents an important step in strengthening regional leadership for tobacco control in the Americas. By equipping PAHO/WHO Representatives with practical tools and strategic skills, the initiative supports stronger public health policies, better protection for children and adolescents, and continued progress against tobacco-related disease.
