I, like so many others in Amman, Jordan, have witnessed the rampant spread of smoking among both young and old citizens alike. The impacts on our community are becoming increasingly severe, and our government has also voiced concerns over this growing problem. We must now stand together for a healthier Jordan. Strict measures need to be implemented to protect civilians, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with illness, from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.

According to the World Health Organisation, second-hand smoke claims the lives of 600,000 people each year, and exposure to smoke can lead to a variety of health issues ranging from asthma to heart disease. This emphasizes the urgent need for change: we need a complete ban on smoking in public spaces, with separate designated areas for those who wish to smoke. These changes will allow everyone to enjoy public spaces without the risk of passive smoking.

Environmental tobacco smoke has been classified as a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), underscoring its threat to the health of nonsmokers. A clean, smoke-free environment is not a privilege, it's a basic human right.

I am part of a community deeply affected by this issue, and I am not alone. The time for change is now. Sign the petition to make Amman a healthier city, with a smoke-free environment, and designated smoking zones. Together, we can bring about this change!