Seangpirun Wongtawan, the owner of a cannabis shop in Khon Kaen, shows her cannabis products. (Photo: Chakrapan Natanri)
Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network is urging three political parties to reconsider their stance on reinstating cannabis as a narcotic drug. The network, led by Prasitchai Nunual, believes that such a move would lead to more problems and is not based on the available evidence. The Ad-Hoc Committee on Systematic Hemp and Cannabis Resolution, which included experts and representatives from political parties, was established to study the usage of cannabis and potentially remove it from the narcotics list.
Prasitchai Nunual, the leader of Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network, has expressed concern over the attempt by three political parties, namely the Move Forward Party (MFP), the Pheu Thai Party, and the Prachachart Party, to reinstate cannabis as a narcotic drug. He emphasizes that decisions should be based on evidence rather than political motives, as hasty changes to cannabis policy could lead to unintended consequences. Prasitchai urges the parties to review the results of the study conducted by the Ad-Hoc Committee before making any decisions regarding reinstatement.
Prasitchai Nunual warns that reversing the decision to remove cannabis from the narcotics list without considering the evidence could have detrimental effects. It is crucial to avoid making policy changes solely based on public opinion, as this may result in a worse situation in the future. Reinstating cannabis as a narcotic drug could hinder the progress made in studying its usage and exploring its potential benefits. Prasitchai urges political parties to carefully assess the outcomes of the study and engage in thorough discussions before reaching a conclusion, keeping in mind the long-term implications for the country and its citizens.
Cannabis growers in Khon Kaen are also raising their concerns about the potential reinstatement of cannabis as a narcotic drug. The owner of a cannabis shop in the region highlights the vagueness of current legal regulations on cannabis, which poses challenges for business owners. She stresses the importance of new regulations focusing on the medical uses of the plant, as many growers have already invested significant resources in cultivating high-quality cannabis products. Engaging in open discussions with growers and industry stakeholders would ensure that any changes to cannabis policies consider the interests of those involved in the sector while also benefiting the wider society.
In order to make well-informed decisions regarding cannabis policy, it is crucial for political parties, experts, and stakeholders to engage in comprehensive discussions. These discussions should take into account the results of the Ad-Hoc Committee’s study, the concerns of cannabis growers, and the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis usage. By weighing these factors and conducting evidence-based analysis, policymakers can create regulations that strike a balance between public health and safety, the interests of the cannabis industry, and the potential medical applications of the plant.
Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network, led by Prasitchai Nunual, urges political parties to reconsider their efforts to reinstate cannabis as a narcotic drug. The network emphasizes the importance of evidence-based decision making and the potential consequences of hasty policy changes. Cannabis growers in Khon Kaen also join the call for comprehensive discussions before any regulatory adjustments are made. By considering the outcomes of the study conducted by the Ad-Hoc Committee and engaging in open dialogue with stakeholders, policymakers
Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/learning/easy/2581350/weed-network-fears-law-change
Medical cannabis professional based in Phuket, Thailand.
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