«Anti-smoking» law in action: review of law enforcement practices

This article analyzes the first experience of bringing to administrative responsibility for violation of legislation in the field of public health protection from exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and consequences of tobacco consumption. Administrative offenses considered in this article refer to the competence of the internal affairs authorities (police). The author presents the information and analytical data characterizing the law enforcement practices in such offenses as: involving minors into tobacco use, violation of the law prohibiting tobacco smoking in certain areas indoors and in public places; distribution of tobacco products or tobacco among the population free of charge including in the form of gifts; wholesale or retail sale of nasvai. The article highlights the ways of increasing the effectiveness of administrative and legal punishments for violation of anti-smoking legislation. The article can be used in the practice of officers and police units in the application of administrative and legal measures aimed at prevention of offenses in this field, taking into consideration the need to ensure respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms of citizens.