Economist Vilen Khachatryan says the fight against smoking would be more effective if only smokers are fined.

“Mechanisms would not work if the main responsibility is placed on people who allow people to smoke in public places which provide services. If a smoker makes a mistake, the fine should be imposed on the smoker,” the economist said.

There are signs prohibiting smoking inside public transport, but drivers continue to smoke in the same way. If citizens are given the right not to pay the fee to a smoking driver for the poor service he renders, it would be possible to practice public oversight over the process,” he continued.

The economist says there could be other mechanisms as well.

For example, sensor signals can be installed in elevators. After being trapped in an elevator twice, the smoker will not smoke in it for the third time,” Mr Khachatryan said.