FAIFA criticises WHO-FCTC COP11 for excluding tobacco farmers

The Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA) has condemned the decision of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC) to exclude tobacco farmers and their representatives from the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11), scheduled to take place in Geneva from November 17 to 22, 2025. The farmers’ participation request was reportedly rejected on the grounds that their interests were not aligned with the FCTC’s objectives, a justification FAIFA termed “illogical and discriminatory.”

FAIFA’s objections and key arguments

FAIFA President P. S. Murali Babu expressed disappointment over the exclusion, saying that it violated the principles of inclusivity and transparency central to the UN and WHO. He argued that the FCTC’s own Articles 17 and 18 require protection of farmers’ livelihoods and promotion of sustainable alternatives, making the decision contradictory. The federation stated that denying farmers a voice in discussions that directly affect their future was undemocratic.

India’s tobacco sector and economic significance

India is the world’s second-largest tobacco producer after China and ranks fourth globally in Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco production, following China, Brazil, and Zimbabwe. It is also the second-largest exporter of unmanufactured tobacco after Brazil, with exports valued at ₹12,006 crore in 2023–24. FAIFA highlighted that more than 36 million people in India depend on tobacco cultivation, processing, and trade for their livelihood, underlining the industry’s socio-economic importance.

Concerns over policy exclusion and livelihoods

According to FAIFA, the continuing exclusion of farmer representatives from global tobacco policy forums risks alienating millions of families who depend on the crop. The association warned that policies framed without farmer consultation could destabilise rural economies and undermine livelihood security. It called on the WHO-FCTC Secretariat to recognise the role of farmers as legitimate stakeholders in tobacco-control policymaking.

Exam Oriented Facts

• WHO-FCTC COP11 will be held in Geneva from November 17 to 22, 2025.
• FAIFA represents tobacco farmers across India.
• India is the world’s second-largest tobacco producer and exporter of unmanufactured tobacco.
• Over 36 million people in India depend on the tobacco sector for their livelihood.

FAIFA’s appeal for inclusion at COP11

FAIFA reiterated its demand that farmer representatives be permitted to attend COP11 as observers or stakeholders. The organisation emphasised that inclusive dialogue is essential for balanced policymaking that protects health objectives while ensuring economic sustainability. It urged global policymakers to engage with farmers rather than marginalise them in critical policy discussions shaping the future of agricultural livelihoods.