The opposition party Democratic Left Alliance (SLD) wants to legalize cannabis for medical use in Poland.

Today, members of the Polish left are going to introduce an amendment to a bill on preventing drug addiction, which will legalize the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Seventeen MPs signed the amendment draft.

“Marihuana, similarly to other drugs, such as morphine, can also be used in medicine for treating many diseases. The use of cannabis as a medicine is legal in several European countries and it should also be accepted as a remedy in Poland,” said former health minister Marek Balicki.

Cannabis used for medical purposes is legal in the Netherlands, some parts of Switzerland, Canada and 14 states in the US.

Cannabis used medically relieves pain, stimulates hunger during chemotherapy and AIDS patients, is effective in treating glaucoma and ameliorates nausea.

Studies have also shown that it can be beneficial for patients who suffer from multiple sclerosis, depression and cancer.

The Democratic Left Alliance will call for a more precise definition of what “small quantity of drug for self-use” means. According to the amendment, a person who possesses that amount of cannabis will not be punished. Currently, everyone who carries, grows or trades cannabis in Poland is a criminal. (mg)

Source: PAP