The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) is the first global public health treaty that was negotiated under the auspices of WHO and its Member States.  It was unanimously adopted by WHO member countries in May 2003.  The FCTC is comprised of supply and demand reduction provisions that are laid out in several articles.  The treaty came into effect in February 2005 after 40 countries had ratified. 

The ultimate objective of the Convention and of the related protocols is to provide a framework for integrated tobacco-control measures to be implemented through the engagement of the Parties or countries, which have ratified the Convention.  These measures will continually and substantially reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and thus protect present and future generations from the devastating health, social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke.