This is a message from Francis Thompson.
Hello FCA members,
As you know, the second FCTC Conference of the Parties (COP) is fast approaching. That means it's time to start thinking about what contribution you are going to make to the FCA Bulletin this time round.
The COP is a unique opportunity to reach most of the governments in the world: for seven long days, we will have hundreds of officials who work on tobacco issues as a captive audience.
We can praise those who need praising and criticize those who need a good kick in the rear.
Just as importantly, we can provide concrete examples and human stories to go along with the dry legal discussions that often dominate the formal negotiations.
Practical things to keep in mind:
1) You don't need to be a great writer, or have perfect grammar or spelling -- that's what editors are for. It is very important to have contributions from all regions of the world.
2) You can send photos by e-mail (to francisthompson_ca@yahoo.ca) or bring them on CD, DVD or USB stick.
3) Articles should be a maximum of 800 words long. In most cases, shorter is better.
4) Articles can be in English, French or Spanish.
We are exploring the possibility of adding some Arabic or Russian content, but it's not clear whether that will be possible.
5) Stories about FCTC implementation (or lack of implementation) in a particular country are obviously of particular interest. Try to stay concrete: this is an example of what happens when you pass an advertising ban but the fine for violations is too low", that sort of thing.
6) If you have copy-editing or layout experience and want to help out in Bangkok, send me an e-mail. If you have no layout experience but would like to learn, we use Microsoft Publisher (usually installable as an option from a Microsoft Office CD/DVD).
7) Though my normal e-mail address (fthompson@nsra-adnf.ca) works, I encourage you to use francisthompson_ca@yahoo.ca for submissions. I've had some bad experiences recently with spam filters killing real e-mails from some countries.
8) I'm on the road most of the time between today and June 23th, so there may be delays in answering e-mails.
Thanks, and I look forward to seeing many of you in Thailand.
Francis
FCA Bulletin Editor (for the 7th [!] time)
fthompson@nsra-adnf.ca
Director of Policy
Non-Smokers' Rights Association
Ottawa
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