Ukraine Moves to Legalize Medical Cannabis

KIEV- In a landmark decision, Ukrainian lawmakers have passed a bill to legalize medical cannabis, marking a significant step in providing relief for patients suffering from cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The bill, which is now awaiting the signature of President Volodymyr Zelensky, is seen as a major advancement in the country’s healthcare policy.

The bill was approved on Thursday by the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s 450-seat unicameral parliament, with a substantial majority of 248 votes. This move to legalize medical cannabis aims to provide access to those suffering from cancer and PTSD, especially resulting from the ongoing military conflict with Russia, which began with the invasion in February 2022.

The proposed legislation outlines that patients seeking medical cannabis treatments will require a doctor’s prescription. It is important to note that the bill strictly limits the use of cannabis to medical purposes only, continuing the prohibition of adult-use cannabis. To facilitate quicker access for patients, the law will also permit the import of raw cannabis materials.

President Zelensky, who has previously shown support for cannabis-based medicines, is expected to sign the bill into law. He endorsed the use of medical cannabis during his 2019 presidential campaign and reiterated his support in June. Once signed, the law is set to become effective six months after the president’s endorsement.

Ukrainian MP Maria Mezentseva emphasized the bill’s strict focus on medical use, stating, “The draft law on medical cannabis is aimed exclusively at treating Ukrainians who really need it. Medicines only by prescription, only medicinal products and modern production in Ukraine to avoid all possible corruption risks.”

Although the bill currently specifies only cancer and PTSD as qualifying conditions, there has been discussion about expanding its scope. The health committee chair mentioned in July that there was pressure to broaden the law to include other severe illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy.

This development represents a significant shift in Ukraine’s approach to medical treatments, potentially opening the door to more comprehensive healthcare solutions for those in dire need amidst the ongoing conflict.