June 29, 2023

Zelensky's Green Prescription


Zelensky's Green Prescription
A bottle holding medical cannabis. Jeff W, Unsplash.

In a significant announcement during his address at the Verkhovna Rada, President Volodymyr Zelensky put forward a proposal to legalize cannabis-derived medications, as reported by Ukrainska Pravda.

Zelensky emphasized the need for Ukraine to establish itself as a leader in Europe's mental and physical rehabilitation sector. Beyond the construction of rehabilitation centers, the president underscored the importance of adequately training personnel to meet the demands of this burgeoning industry.

According to Zelensky, "all world practices, no matter how complex or unusual they may seem, should be applied in Ukraine so that all citizens do not have to endure the pain, stress, and trauma of war."

“In particular, we must finally honestly legalize cannabis-based medicines, relevant scientific research, and controlled Ukrainian production for everyone who needs it,” Zelensky said.

After a setback in July 2021, when the Verkhovna Rada rejected a bill aimed at legalizing medical cannabis, renewed efforts have brought the matter back into the spotlight. In June 2022, a similar bill was resubmitted to the Rada, raising expectations among proponents that legalization was on the horizon. As the summer of 2023 unfolds, it is anticipated that the proposed legislation will finally undergo a thorough consideration.

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