France bans smoking at beaches and parks for a tobacco-free generation

France has implemented a smoking ban at beaches and parks to protect children from passive smoke. Starting Sunday, lighting up in these public spaces will be illegal. The ban also applies to bus shelters and areas near schools, swimming pools, and libraries.

However, it does not include cafe terraces or e-cigarettes, disappointing some activists. Violators could face fines up to 700 euros. Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin stated, "Tobacco must disappear from places where there are children." The ban reflects France's goal of a tobacco-free generation by 2032, as smoking rates continue to decline.