FAIFA’s Stand on Geneva COP11 2025

Geneva COP11 2025 has become a major current affairs topic after the Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA) condemned the decision of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) to exclude tobacco farmers from its upcoming global meeting.

For SSC aspirants, understanding the significance of Geneva COP11 2025, its agenda, and the reasons behind FAIFA’s protest is important for General Awareness, International Organisations, and Agriculture Economy topics.

What is Geneva COP11 2025?

Geneva COP11 2025 refers to the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) under the WHO FCTC, scheduled to be held in Geneva from 17 to 22 November 2025.

This Geneva conference is a major UN health conference focused on global tobacco regulation and international public health strategies.

The meeting includes representatives from more than 180 countries who gather to review tobacco control policies, agricultural transitions, export regulations, and sustainable alternatives.

Why Is FAIFA Opposing the Exclusion from Geneva COP11 2025?

FAIFA has expressed strong objection to being excluded from Geneva COP11 2025, calling the move “illogical and discriminatory”.

Their main arguments include:

• Articles 17 and 18 of the WHO FCTC specifically require member nations to protect tobacco farmers’ livelihoods and promote sustainable alternatives.

• Excluding farmers contradicts the goals of inclusive policymaking at Geneva COP11 2025.

• Farmer communities will be directly impacted by decisions taken at this global platform.

• FAIFA argues that excluding them from the COP11 tobacco control meeting is undemocratic and violates the principles of transparency within the UN system.

This dispute has brought attention to the COP11 farmer exclusion issue, especially in India, where millions depend on tobacco cultivation.

India’s Tobacco Sector: Key Points for SSC Exams

• India is the second-largest tobacco producer after China.

• It ranks fourth in Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco production.

• India is the second-largest exporter of unmanufactured tobacco after Brazil.

• In 2023–24, exports were valued at ₹12,006 crore.

• Over 36 million people in India depend on tobacco-related activities for their livelihood.

These facts strengthen FAIFA’s belief that excluding farmers from Geneva COP11 2025 can threaten the stability of rural economies.

Agenda: What Will Be Discussed at Geneva COP11 2025?

The WHO FCTC COP11 Geneva meeting is expected to discuss:

• Global tobacco taxes and control mechanisms

• Alternative farming strategies for tobacco growers

• New guidelines for sustainable agriculture

• Review of FCTC Article 17 and 18 discussions

• Export regulations and compliance rules

• Updates on the WHO COP11 delegates list

• Roadmap for the global tobacco policy 2025

For SSC aspirants, these topics fall under International Relations, Economy, and Government Schemes.

Impact of Geneva COP11 2025 on Indian Farmers

FAIFA believes decisions taken at Geneva COP11 2025 may:

• Influence tobacco pricing and export demand

• Force shifts toward alternative crops

• Introduce international regulatory pressure

• Reduce support for traditional tobacco-cultivating communities

This is why FAIFA is pushing for inclusion at Geneva COP11 2025, either as stakeholders or observers.

Why Were Farmers Excluded from Geneva COP11 2025?

According to the WHO-FCTC Secretariat:

• Farmers' interests may conflict with the objectives of WHO tobacco control policies.

• The presence of farmer groups could influence policy debate outcomes.

FAIFA insists that excluding the most affected stakeholders from Geneva COP11 2025 does not support fair decision-making.

Significance of Geneva COP11 2025 for SSC Exams

The controversy around Geneva COP11 2025 highlights important areas often asked in SSC exams:

• Role of international organizations

• India’s global position in agricultural production

• Balancing public health with economic interests

• Stakeholder participation in UN policymaking

• Importance of inclusive dialogue in major global forums

Understanding how Geneva COP11 2025 affects Indian farmers will help aspirants answer questions related to current affairs, agriculture, and global policies.

Key Points to Remember (Quick Revision)

• Geneva COP11 2025 will be held from 17 to 22 November 2025.

• Organised under WHO FCTC.

• FAIFA represents Indian tobacco farmers.

• India is the second-largest tobacco producer globally.

• Over 36 million people rely on the tobacco sector.

• Central issue: COP11 farmer exclusion issue.

• Focus areas include global policies, Articles 17 & 18, and sustainable agriculture.

Final Thoughts

Geneva COP11 2025 has drawn attention after the Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA) criticised the WHO-FCTC for excluding tobacco farmers from the upcoming global conference in Geneva.

FAIFA argues that the decision contradicts FCTC Articles 17 and 18, which call for protecting farmer livelihoods and promoting sustainable alternatives. India, the world’s second-largest tobacco producer, relies heavily on this sector, with more than 36 million people dependent on tobacco cultivation and trade.

FAIFA warns that policies made without farmer participation may destabilise rural economies and urges the WHO-FCTC to include farmers as legitimate stakeholders in discussions shaping their future.