France has banned smoking in public places. Smokers who light up a cigarette in places like parks and beaches will be breaking the law. The smoking ban will protect children from passive smoking. This is breathing in smoke from other people who are smoking. France wants a tobacco-free generation by 2032. France's minister of health said smoking must "disappear" from public places. She said: "These are places to play, learn, and breathe; not for smoking." She added: "The freedom to smoke stops where the right of children to breathe clean air begins."

Smoking is falling in France. However, passive smoking still kills 5,000 people a year. Most French people support a smoking ban. They want bans at cafes and restaurants, but these places are not included in the new ban. Smoking is a leading cause of preventable disease and death. It can damage nearly every organ of the body. Smoking near children is dangerous because their bodies are still developing. When children breathe in second-hand smoke, they can develop breathing problems. It can damage their lungs. The new ban will allow children to grow up to be healthier.