Latvia tightens its anti-smoking laws

On July 1, Latvia tightened its already strict anti-smoking laws. Peteris Strautins sees this as evidence of a global trend, but also as a feature particular to Latvia. "The restriction of smoking in public places is a necessary step on the path to a state in which no one is allowed to enjoy themselves at the cost of other people's health. The same goes for the battle against reckless driving and the other signs of a lack of self-control that are widespread in Latvia. In the first years following the collapse of socialism there was a widespread lack of consideration for other people. This doesn't mean that people who need a kick will have to fly to Mars. Those who want to risk their lives can climb mountains, but not create smoke that others have to breathe."

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