Youth as Agents of Change in the Enforcement of Tobacco Control Policy

Tobacco control is an important strategy to reduce morbidity and mortality induced by non-infectious diseases due to cigarette consumption. Youths have a strategic position as agents of change capable of encouraging the shifts in social norms related to smoking behavior and strengthening the implementation of tobacco control policies. This study aims to examine the role of the Pemuda Penggerak community in advocating for tobacco control policies in Surakarta City, especially in enforcing the Smoke Free Zone (SFZ) policy. Using a qualitative approach with a case study method, data were collected through in-depth interviews and documentation of advocacy activities recorded in print and online media. The results of study show that youths play a significant role in increasing public awareness and encouraging compliance with tobacco control policies through a collaboration-based approach and the use of social media. Collaboration is carried out by promoting cooperation with NGOs and youth communities in the form of joint campaigns to enforce tobacco control policies. YouTube and Instagram platforms are used to build an online movement to disseminate information and education on the hazards of smoking. This study confirms that the active and innovative involvement of youth in advocating for tobacco control policies is a determinant in enforcing policies and raising collective awareness of the importance of a healthy environment without cigarettes.