Tobacco Industry CSR activities in Poland between 2020-2023

Abstract

Abstract Background The tobacco industry has undergone a significant transformation in its approach towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities. Once primarily associated with controversy and criticism due to the health risks associated with tobacco consumption, many tobacco companies have begun to embrace CSR initiatives as a means to mitigate these concerns and demonstrate their commitment to broader societal well-being. Methods Methods were based on the Global Tobacco Industry Interference Index. Between 1 January 2020 and 31 March 2023 scoping review of legal basis, Polish media websites, Polish government and local government websites, also social media of tobacco industry companies has been done by four reviewers searching separately. Results Between 2020 and 2023 several tobacco companies supported public schools (organized workshops, offered internships, and demonstrated the production processes). In 2022, the National Revenue Administration signed an agreement with Philip Morris Polska, among other companies, under the Cooperation Program. The objective of the Program is to initiate collaborative measures that promote compliance with tax regulations. At the end of 2021, the National Revenue Administration took patronage over the Business Center Club social campaign entitled ‘Coming together to fight the illicit trade in tobacco products’. Moreover, in March 2023 the General Police Headquarters started cooperation with BAT and JTI in the field of combating illegal production and trade in tobacco products, as well as disclosing and eliminating tobacco products from illegal sources from economic circulation. Conclusions In Poland, which currently has no specific regulation constraining tobacco industry lobbying, implementation of the provisions of WHO FCTC Article 5.3 is needed to limit interactions between the government and the tobacco industry. Government and public schools should not accept any support from the tobacco industry. Key messages • The government should have regulatory measures to manage its interactions with the tobacco industry, emphasizing the importance of refraining from accepting industry assistance. • Implementation of WHO FCTC Article 5.3 of is needed to limit interactions between the government and the tobacco industry.