Reducing the global burden of tobacco use requires comprehensive implementation of the measures in the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) and the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products (the Protocol) at both global and country-level.

The Secretariat of the WHO FCTC provides technical advice and support to all Parties on the implementation of the WHO FCTC and the Protocol. The work of the Secretariat has a focus on supporting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) with their implementation efforts.

Through development assistance the Secretariat  provides support in the following areas;

•  Joint needs assessments are aimed at supporting lower-resource Parties to meet their obligations under the treaty. The needs assessment enables the identification of gaps and needs in implementation, makes recommendations and facilitates technical and financial assistance for effective implementation of the treaty.
  
• South-South and Triangular Cooperation  facilitates the sharing of expertise and best practices in WHO FCTC implementation
• The FCTC 2030 project is another key component of the Secretariat’s work. The project provides intensive support to a selected number of LMICs that demonstrate commitment to accelerate the implementation of the WHO FCTC.
• Is been proven that the WHO FCTC is an accelerator of sustainable development, and through the FCTC 2030 project, Parties are encouraged to harness the benefits from strong tobacco control to contribute to the wider achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Implementation workshops are also a pivotal area of work. The Convention Secretariat regularly organizes intercountry meetings on the implementation of the WHO FCTC, in collaboration with WHO regional offices. Finally, Parties to the WHO FCTC are encouraged to ratify the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products and coordinate the provision of technical assistance to Parties to support implementation of the Protocol.