In constant struggle for the regulation of cannabis, mainly in the medicinal field.
30-07-2024 07:00:48 - Updated: 30 July, 2024
Paris, France – July 2024. The administration of President Emmanuel Macron has made the controversial decision not to move forward with the legalization of medicinal weed in 2024. Despite growing public outcry and positive results from the ongoing pilot project, the government remains steadfast in its conservative stance, citing the need for more studies and a lack of political consensus.
⭐ A Promising Pilot Project
Since its inception in March 2021, the medicinal weed pilot project in France has allowed 2,540 patients to access cannabis-based treatments. These patients suffer from severe conditions such as epilepsy, cancer, neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis, and palliative care needs. The preliminary results of the trial have been highly positive, with a significant majority of participants reporting improvements in quality of life and symptom management, especially in pain relief and reduction of spasticity.
👾 The Government’s Stance and Political Resistance
Despite these encouraging results, the French government, influenced by groups such as the Interministerial Mission for the Fight against Drugs and Addictive Behaviors (MILDECA), has decided not to proceed with full legalization. Critics of this decision argue that it is driven more by political considerations than by patient welfare. Statements from prominent medical figures, such as Professor Nicolas Authier, president of the Scientific Committee on Medicinal Cannabis, highlight the need for an approach that prioritizes patient health over ideological stances.
✅ Divergent Opinions
The medical community and advocates of medicinal weed have expressed their frustration. Professor Authier and other experts have emphasized the importance of recognizing the clinical benefits observed during the trial and providing continuous access to these treatments for patients in need. On the other hand, opponents within the government and certain interest groups continue to voice concerns about the safety and regulation of medicinal weed, arguing that more studies are needed before large-scale implementation.
🎯 Future Scenarios
With the pilot project scheduled to end in March 2024, France faces two possible scenarios:
- Extension of the Project: A possible extension of the trial would allow existing patients to continue receiving their treatments, but no new patients would be accepted. This scenario, though limited, would provide temporary relief to current beneficiaries.
- Complete Termination: In the worst-case scenario, the project could conclude without clear alternatives, leaving patients without access to necessary treatments. This scenario would be devastating for those who have found relief in cannabis-based medications.
🥇 A Ray of Hope
Despite the obstacles, there are signs of hope. Discussions around the Social Security Financing Bill (PLFSS) for 2024 could offer an opportunity to advance the legalization of medicinal weed. Influential figures in the National Assembly, such as Caroline Janvier, are working to introduce amendments that ensure continuous access and the possible expansion of medicinal weed in France.
🥀 The European Context
Compared to other European countries, France lags behind in implementing medicinal weed policies. Germany, for example, has made significant strides in legalizing and regulating weed for medicinal and recreational uses. This disparity highlights the need for France to reconsider its stance and evaluate the benefits observed in other countries that have adopted more progressive policies.
🚀 Pevgrow’s Opinion
I don’t think Macron can decide anything in this regard, just as with other issues like the war in Ukraine, the President of France has to accept what those who brought him to power, namely the Rothschilds, dictate. However, we know that Macron’s time as president of France is limited, and politicians from other parties like Mélenchon have openly declared their willingness to legalize weed.
🧐 Conclusion
The path to the legalization of medicinal weed in France is fraught with political and social challenges. The Macron government’s decision has created uncertainty about the future of this crucial therapy for many patients. As the debate continues, the medical community and medicinal weed advocates will keep pushing for the recognition of proven benefits and the guarantee of legal and safe access in the near future.
The resolution of this issue will have a significant impact on the quality of life of thousands of people suffering from chronic illnesses, and the medical community hopes that the government will prioritize clinical evidence and patient welfare in its future decisions.
It is outrageous that Macron and his government continue to ignore the needs of patients by not legalizing medical cannabis in 2024.