Effective from Sunday, France has introduced a broad prohibition on smoking in various public spaces, aiming to bolster public health and safeguard children from the hazards of passive smoking.

The government decree, which was published in the official government gazette on Saturday, extends the ban to beaches, parks, public gardens, bus shelters, outside libraries, swimming pools, and schools.

Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin emphasized the need for such measures, stating that 'tobacco must disappear from places where there are children,' highlighting the 'right of children to breathe pure air.' Violations of this ban will be penalized with a fine of 135 euros ($158).

Notably, cafe terraces are exempted from these restrictions.

According to official statistics, tobacco use claims approximately 75,000 lives annually in France due to related complications.

A recent public opinion poll indicates that two-thirds of the French population (62%) support such measures, reflecting a societal shift towards stricter regulation of smoking habits.