21 February 2009
BEIRUT: There was something amiss in a number of Gemmayzeh's pubs on Thursday night: the heavy cloud of cigarette smoke that normally hovers above client's head was no where to be smelt. A quick survey around the bar indicated that neither were the ashtrays or smokers. With confused-looking smokers relegated to the street curb, the air in some of Gemmayzeh's best-loved bars was sweet as a stuffy room crammed with drinkers possibly could be.
The campaign creating so much panic among Beirut's nicotine addicts was initiated by volunteers from the Beirut and Sahel Metn Rotaract Clubs. Both smokers and non-smokers came together to promote the need for tobacco-free nights in Beirut's watering holes and restaurants, and to push policy-makers to promote non-smoking habits across Lebanon. Around 30 establishments participated in the campaign, tacking up "Ain't no smoking tonight" posters on their doors and politely asking clients who did attempt to light up to do so outside.
"We thought that there was a need to promote no-smoking nights among young people," said Sarine, one of the campaign volunteers. According to Saiid, another volunteer, some of the bars had initially been hesitant to participate. "They were afraid of losing clients, but what they don't realize is that they are already losing clients who don't like to be around smoke."
After Turkey, Lebanon has the highest smoking rate in the world, and consequently one of the highest cancer rates. Anti-smoking legislation, now a fact of life in most European countries, is virtually non-existent in Lebanon. The tobacco industry here thrives, helped along by minimal taxation and bar and club sponsorships. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Lebanon's tobacco lobby spends "millions per year on advertising."
Although smoking is banned in government buildings and some hospitals, the rule is rarely enforced. By WHO estimates, more than 80 percent of smokers smoke at work. Non-smokers in Lebanon are left with few places to escape the fumes.
"I'd rather all pubs and public spaces went smoke-free," said former smoker Mazen, whose 961 bar participated in the Rotaract campaign. "I don't care if people want to smoke, but it's a crime to force others around you to." He cited the huge burden cigarette-related illnesses placed on Lebanon's health sector, saying he hoped the government would increase the cost of cigarettes or introduce higher taxation for smokers.
"I don't smoke and I hate the smell, but if I didn't go out to meet my friends in bars, I would have no social life," said Dana, who was enjoying a mojito at a smoke-free bar. "It's sad I have to compromise my health in order to hang out with my friends, but I don't feel I have a choice. I'm happy tonight, I can actually smell my perfume!"
The Rotaract campaign has also drawn an outpouring of support on Facebook. "We non-smokers have the right to breath," said Roula. "Please have [non-smoking nights] every week so that people start getting used to the idea."
Elias, meanwhile was a little more fed up with his smoking counterparts: "Those who decide to increase their chances of developing fatal diseases at an earlier age should do so in the privacy of their own homes. Smoking is not cool or sexy - just a cover up for the lack of conversation skills."
But despite receiving a largely positive response from punters, not everyone was convinced the non-smoking campaign would gain ground in Lebanon anytime soon. Several smokers were seen hurrying around Gemmayzeh looking out for smoker friendly bars.
"I don't believe there is any incentive to enforce non-smoking laws," said Rami. "In most countries the main driver behind state involvement in banning smoking is the heavy cost the state incurs on health insurance and social security due to smoking. In Lebanon, nobody benefits directly from a smoking ban in public places."
Copyright The Daily Star 2009.Copyright The Daily Star 2009.
