The Economist Impact, an arm of the Economist Group, has cancelled its upcoming cancer conference following a backlash over its associations with major tobacco companies. The conference, set to take place in Brussels, faced withdrawals from speakers and attendees after it was revealed that Economist Impact had connections with Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International. These ties conflicted with the event’s mission to shape the cancer-control agenda.

The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) announced its withdrawal from the event, citing its policy against engaging with the tobacco industry, aligning with the World Health Organization’s framework. This move reflects the UICC’s commitment to public health and reducing cancer globally. The Union’s stance was echoed by prominent figures like Professor Mark Lawler and Dr Wendy Yared, who both expressed shock and disapproval over the tobacco industry sponsorship.

Economist Impact was criticised for allowing tobacco sponsorship in its healthcare-related work, despite having a policy against it. The event’s cancellation was confirmed in an email by Ian Hemming, managing director of Economist Impact events, acknowledging the concerns raised.

The controversy highlights the tension between corporate sponsorship and public health advocacy, emphasising the need for transparency and ethical considerations in event partnerships.

Source: The Guardian