Iraq Education Ministry Sets Penalties for Smoking in Schools, Offices

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Education announced new penalties for smoking and electronic cigarette use in ministry buildings and educational institutions across the country. The ministry said it would establish new subcommittees in its central and provincial offices to increase oversight. The decision was reached during the first meeting of the committee, chaired by Ministry Administrative Undersecretary and Committee Head Muhammad Dai el-Azzawi. The committee agreed to prohibit visitors from entering ministry premises with cigarettes or e-cigarettes. It also decided to organize field inspection visits and conduct awareness-raising activities. Violators of the new rules will face administrative penalties and fines. The ministry said proposals for these sanctions would be presented to the Education Minister following completion of the necessary legal and financial procedures.