Uraguay Stands Up to Philip Morris' Bully Tactics

Earlier this year, tobacco giant Philip Morris (PM) - the maker of Marlboro cigarettes - sent the following message to the country of Uruguay:
We have more money than you.
RESISTANCE IS FUTILE.
After Uruguay passed legislation requiring 80% of the cigarette package be covered with a graphic warning label, PM decided to sue, forcing the country to legally defend its decision to protect the public. With PM earning more than twice Uruguay’s total economic output, the lawsuit was the perfect scare tactic. If they succeeded, it would send a message to all developing nations to not step on the tobacco giant’s toes. Fortunately, the Uruguayan government stood firm. Now, it’s our turn to help shed some light on the bullying that PM is doing around the world.
VOTE for Philip Morris as the

WORST COMPANY OF THE YEAR
in this year’s Public Eye Awards.

These attempts to intimidate developing countries from protecting their citizens have not gone unanswered. International public health groups and more than 140 health ministers from around the world came to Uruguay’s defense as did New York City Mayor and philanthropist Michael Bloomberg, who has committed millions to fight the spread of death and disease caused by tobacco use.
Today, you can help developing nations like Uruguay shine the spotlight on PM and their tactics of intimidation -- VOTE NOW!

Source: Brian Hutchinson
Director, Grassroots
www.tobaccofreekids.org * 202.296.5469 * 1400 Eye Street, NW, Suite 1200 Washington, D.C. 20005