In North Macedonia’s smoke-filled cafes and restaurants, discontent is also clouding the air over recently proposed government-backed legislation that would drastically tighten restrictions on the use of tobacco and vapes.

Since the country introduced its first anti-smoking regulations, over a decade ago, almost everyone with an urge to light up a cigarette has found a workaround. Some have switched to electronic cigarettes as a stealthier and generally more tolerated option in enclosed areas. Vaping is also increasingly popular among the young, as it is across Europe.

Establishments that rely on that large part of the population that still smokes have adjusted, too, opening up terraces for smoking, as the law dictates. But, in reality, these ‘open’ terraces are usually closed off, covered by glass or plastic sheets from all sides.

No wonder, then, that when the Health Ministry in January unveiled its draft Law on Protection from Smoking, which would significantly tighten restrictions on where smoking is allowed, as well as on the advertising and availability of tobacco products, it drew criticism from both smokers and the hospitality sector.