GFN•TV: News and Interviews

EU nicotine policy is under fire after claims that smoke-free nicotine products are as harmful as cigarettes. In GFN News, Joanna Junak interviews Bengt Wiberg of Stingfree AB on why experts dispute these statements, what science says about nicotine pouches, snus, and vaping, and how the debate could impact tobacco harm reduction and future EU regulation.

2026 could be a turning point for nicotine policy in Africa. In this episode of GFN News, Joanna Junak speaks with Joseph Magero, consumer advocate and Chairman of the Campaign for Safer Alternatives, about the challenges and opportunities for harm reduction, the impact of restrictive policies, and how countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria are shaping the future of safer nicotine products.

Today's Science Lab session features presentations from Yusuff Adebayo Adebisi & Gabriel Oke. Presentations highlight the need for inovative approaches to tobacco use in LMIC's and identify gaps in THR research in the global and LMIC contexts. Gabriel Oke shares some statistics on tobacco use, health impacts and understanding of SNPs in Africa.

Giusy Rita Maria La Rosa's systematic review and network meta-analysis of 36 randomised contol trials examines the oral health effects of non-combustible nicotine products. Dr Riccardo Polosa takes questions from GFN25 attendee's.

A new European Heart Journal report has reignited the debate over nicotine, heart health, and harm reduction. In this GFN News interview, Will Godfrey of Filter examines the claims that all forms of nicotine pose equal cardiovascular risk and the strong backlash from independent experts.

The discussion explores criticisms of the report’s scientific approach, evidence from population studies, and concerns that its conclusions could influence upcoming EU tobacco, taxation, and health policies. With Europe already facing the world’s highest smoking rates, the video asks whether this narrative could undermine harm reduction efforts and discourage smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives.

In another Science Lab session Dr Roberto Sussman provides a critiques of e-cigarette aerosol studies and discusses the methodological problems that persist with emission studies, such as overheating coils to produce aldehydes and manufacturing harms.

Six months after the UK’s disposable vape ban, questions remain over its real-world impact. Industry commentator Martin Cullip discusses weak enforcement funding, the rise of illegal sales, growing environmental awareness, and concerns that the ban could undermine smoking cessation and push some users back to cigarettes.

Part two of the interview will air on Wednesday, January 14th!

Join us for the interview with Martin Cullip as he break down the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill, expected to become law in 2026. He explores the generational smoking ban, vaping and nicotine regulations, and potential impacts on adult users. Learn why nicotine pouches, flavor restrictions, and ministerial powers are sparking debate, and how consumers and harm-reduction advocates can make their voices heard.

Stay informed about the latest UK tobacco and vaping policies and what they mean for smokers, vapers, and the future of safer nicotine products.

Looking ahead to 2026, Nick "GrimmGreen" Green and Professor Tikki Pang share their hopes and predictions for tobacco harm reduction worldwide. From clear, science-based messaging about vaping and nicotine pouches to the dangers of prohibition and illicit products, they discuss what changes are needed - and what might realistically happen. Discover their insights on creating safer alternatives and amplifying the voice of harm reduction in public health.

In 2025, the world saw both progress and setbacks in tobacco control. Sweden became officially smoke-free through effective risk-reduction policies, while Mexico implemented strict bans on vaping and harm-reduction tools, fueling black markets and uncertainty. Meanwhile, countries like Chile are leading the way with regulations that recognize safer alternatives.