Legalization of medical cannabis in Ukraine delayed by opposition parties

The bill to legalize medical cannabis in Ukraine has run into a major obstacle: the opposition parties. Despite overwhelming support from President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainian public, hundreds of amendments have been introduced, effectively blocking the bill’s progress.

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Legislative deadlock

The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's unicameral legislature, was about to proceed with a historic vote on the medical cannabis reform bill. However, the bill’s progress has been hampered by a barrage of amendments, described by MP Olga Stefanyshina as a deliberate attempt to 'drain» the legislative process. According to Ms. Stefanyshina, members of the All-Ukrainian Union »Fatherland« are responsible for tabling more than 800 amendments, with the intention of prolonging the debates and preventing the bill’s adoption.

Ms. Stefanyshina lamented the absurdity of the situation, emphasizing that the proposed amendments are nothing more than «spam» and lack substance. The bill, which aims to create a national medical cannabis program to provide relief to patients suffering from illnesses such as cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder, has received support not only from lawmakers, but also President Zelensky. The perceived urgency of adopting this reform is underscored by the violent conflict currently raging in Ukraine, which strengthens the case for alternative treatments for people suffering from war-related trauma.

President Zelensky has advocated for the legalization of medical cannabis, bringing Ukraine in line with international practices. In a speech delivered in June before parliament, he emphasized the need to adopt «global best practices» and to equitably legalize cannabis-based medicines. Zelensky explains his support by his belief that these medications can alleviate the pain, stress, and trauma experienced by Ukrainians, particularly those suffering from war-related disorders.

Although it was passed on first reading in July and approved by the National Committee on Health, Medical Care, and Health Insurance in October, the final reading of the bill has therefore been postponed indefinitely.