Ukrainian Parliament Passes Smoking Ban Before Euro 2012

An antismoking protest in Kyiv (file photo)

Ukraine's parliament has banned smoking in most public places ahead of the start of the Euro 2012 football championship in June.

Lawmakers approved a law to make smoking in schools, colleges, hospitals, restaurants, museums, and public places such as buses illegal.

Smoking in airports, hotels, dormitories, and company offices will be allowed only in special smoking zones.

President Viktor Yanukovych now has 10 days to either sign the bill into law or send it back to parliament.

Some 22 percent of Ukrainians over 12 are smokers, according to the Health Ministry.

Ukraine is co-hosting the championship with neighboring Poland and is striving to bring its laws in line with European standards.

Based on reporting by ITAR-TASS and AP