Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has taken a significant step by signing a bill that legalizes medical cannabis in Ukraine. This move follows the Ukrainian Parliament’s successful unblocking of a medical marijuana legalization bill in January. The bill received strong support, passing with 248 votes in the unicameral parliament, the Verkhovna Rada. However, it initially faced opposition when the Batkivshchyna (Fatherland) parliamentary faction attempted to obstruct its approval.
The legislation aims to provide relief to patients suffering from severe illnesses and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago, citizens have endured immense trauma. By legalizing medical cannabis, the government hopes to alleviate pain, stress, and emotional distress experienced by those affected by war.
While the bill explicitly lists cancer and war-induced PTSD as conditions for which medical cannabis can be prescribed, lawmakers recognize that other patients may benefit as well. Patients with illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy have also expressed their need for this treatment. The legislation shifts marijuana from being strictly prohibited (under List I) to available for medical use with a prescription (under List II) in Ukraine’s drug code.
To ensure patient access, the bill allows for the import of raw cannabis materials from other countries. The Agrarian Policy Ministry will oversee cannabis cultivation and processing operations, while the National Police and State Agency on Medicines will enforce distribution regulations. By creating a legal framework for medical cannabis, Ukraine aims to provide effective treatment options while minimizing corruption risks.
President Zelensky has been a vocal advocate for this reform. In June 2023, he emphasized the importance of applying world’s best practices to address the pain, stress, and trauma caused by war. He called for the creation of a robust mental and physical rehabilitation sector in Europe, emphasizing controlled Ukrainian manufacturing of cannabis-based medicine. Soldiers on the front lines have already turned to cannabis to cope with their pain, highlighting the urgency of this legislation.
In summary, Ukraine’s legalization of medical marijuana represents a compassionate response to the suffering caused by war. By prioritizing patient well-being and scientific research, the country takes a significant step toward healing and relief for those impacted by the Russo-Ukrainian War12345.
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