A new law authorizing the medical use of cannabis has been enacted by the president. The announcement appeared on the Parliament’s website, detailing the scope and aims of the legislation. The document explains that the framework is designed to govern the cultivation and distribution of hemp plants for medical, industrial, scientific, and technical purposes, with the objective of expanding access to therapies for patients dealing with cancer, injuries, and stress-related conditions connected to ongoing hostilities. The measure is presented as a means to create conditions that broaden access to essential medical services for vulnerable populations. [Citation: Parliament Announcement]
On December 21, 2023, the parliament approved the bill on medical cannabis during its second reading. This milestone highlights the country’s effort to embed a formal framework for medical cannabis within the legal system and signals a shift toward regulated medical access. [Citation: Verkovna Rada Proceedings]
In the wake of the vote, a faction from a major political party introduced a draft aimed at delegalizing medical cannabis in the Verkhovna Rada. The accompanying explanatory note argued that the adoption process violated evaluation and voting procedures specified by law, including an insufficient number of deputies present at the session. [Citation: Parliamentary Records]
The political landscape surrounding these developments includes ongoing martial law and mobilization measures that have affected legislative workflows and public policy priorities. These conditions shape how the medical cannabis regulatory project progresses and how it is perceived by the public and medical communities alike. [Citation: National Policy Briefs]
Officials emphasize that the forthcoming regulatory steps will focus on safeguarding patient access while ensuring rigorous oversight, quality control, and secure supply chains. The approach aims to align with international medical standards, provide clear guidelines for doctors and patients, and establish transparent procedures for licensing, monitoring, and reporting. Stakeholders from healthcare, research institutions, and patient advocacy groups are expected to participate in ongoing consultations to refine the regulatory model and address potential challenges associated with enforcement, reimbursement, and cross-border cooperation. [Citation: National Policy Briefs]