The world’s largest tobacco control conference was held from 22–25 June 2025 in Dublin, Ireland, organized by The Union and the World Health Organization (WHO) with support from Bloomberg Philanthropies. Professor Dr. ArupRatan Choudhury, a renowned Bangladeshi public health expert and anti-tobacco activist, returned home after attending this prestigious global event. Dr. Choudhury joined a 50-member delegation from Bangladesh and presented the country’s progress in tobacco control, including the achievements of his organization Madok Draba O Nesha Nirodh Sangstha (MANAS). He showcased MANAS’s impactful research and success stories through an e-poster presentation.
The global conference brought together public health experts, policymakers, donors, and civil society representatives to share innovations, research, and strategies to combat the tobacco epidemic. Michael Bloomberg announced a $20 million commitment to support global public health initiatives. Distinguished attendees included WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Irish and Canadian health leaders, and representatives from global organizations like Vital Strategies and CTFK. Reflecting on the conference, Dr. Choudhury said, “Tobacco claims over 8.7 million lives globally each year, including more than 161,000 in Bangladesh. This conference provided a valuable opportunity to learn from global best practices and reinforce our efforts to protect public health.”
With over 40 years of experience in public awareness through media, publications, and community initiatives, Dr. Choudhury has been a pioneer in tobacco and drug prevention in Bangladesh. He founded MANAS in 1989, directed the country’s only anti-tobacco film “Swargo Theke Norok”, and authored over 25 books. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to public awareness and social service, Dr. Choudhury has received numerous international honors and was awarded Bangladesh’s second-highest civilian honor, the Ekushey Padak, in 2015.