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Advocacy in action: S Chapman Advocacy in action: extreme corporate makeover interruptus: denormalising tobacco industry corporate schmoozing Tob Control 2004; 13: 445-447 [Abstract] [Full text] [PDF]

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Self-Criticism

Rima Nakkash   (30 November 2004)

Self-Criticism 30 November 2004
Rima Nakkash, DrPH Candidate- Department of Public Health and Policy London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Send letter to journal: Re: Self-Criticism rima.nakkash{at}lshtm.ac.uk Rima Nakkash	After reading Editor Chapman’s description of the efforts that he and other anti-tobacco activist colleagues went through to ensure that tobacco companies are not involved in events regarding corporate social responsibility, I was left with disenchanting thoughts. I recall a few months ago while surfing on the web for information regarding corporate social responsibility tactics of the tobacco industry, I came across information on the 1st corporate social responsibility summit that was to be held in Dubai on April 25-27 2004. Among the sponsors where Shell, British American Tobacco , and McDonlad (The website is still active http://www.iirme.com/csr/ ). Now, in a moment of self-criticism I regret that I had not reacted. Chapman asks in his article “Why so easy?” in reference to his ability to advocate for removal of tobacco industry involvement. I want to ask: “Why so hard?” We have a long way to go in the Region (Eastern Mediterranean Region). There has always been certain apathy toward ability to change any prevailing situation (which may explain my inaction). Advocacy for health is non-existent and policy makers are oblivious of the industry attempts at undermining tobacco control efforts. Looking back, I tried to think whom could I have contacted for support in ending such travesty? A few colleagues come to mind, which are mainly from academic institutions. Maybe Globalink could have been one of the forums in which I could have voiced my concern or solicited support. However Globalink has very few members from the Eastern Mediterranean Region partly due maybe to language (partially relieved due to introduction of Arabic Globalink), computer literacy, or Internet access issues. The reality remains that an enabling environment and support for change does not exist. It’s inspiring to see how colleagues in other regions have been successful in their advocacy efforts. I do believe firmly that it is my duty to change the existing reality and I would like to call upon colleagues in the region to join me in doing so.