The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: Identify methods for strengthening collaboration between NGOs and government, strengthening the national NGO tobacco control movement, and increasing the positive role of the media, on policy development and implementation.

Methods: The Bangladesh Anti-Tobacco Alliance is a successful coalition that brings together a range of NGOs working in different areas, works closely with the media, and has a very close working relationship with government, allowing NGOs to assist government in the drafting of law and policy and support the process leading to ratification of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).

Results: We have over 400 NGOs working together, and an excellent relationship with media (electronic and print) and with government. This has led to the signing and ratifying of the FCTC, and to the passage of a comprehensive tobacco control law. NGO-government collaboration has been essential every step of the way and will support law implementation efforts.