Last updated on June 24th, 2024 at 10:47 am
- Driving The News: Cannabis advocates plan a large protest on June 9 to oppose the potential reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic.
- Why It Matters: The reclassification could significantly impact cannabis businesses and patients relying on medical cannabis.
- The Big Picture: Activists demand the government use scientific research to inform cannabis policy, rather than reverting to strict narcotics regulations.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – On May 28, the Thai Cannabis Network, led by PRASIT CHAI NOONWAL, announced plans for a major protest on June 9, known as Thai Cannabis Day, to demand the government refrain from reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic. The group plans to gather in front of the United Nations building before marching to the Government House, pledging to remain until the government acknowledges their demands for science-based cannabis policies.
Prasit Chai Noonwal, the network’s secretary-general, emphasized that the protest aims to assert the rights of cannabis users and businesses. “No one denies the need for regulation, but it should be done through appropriate laws, not by reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic, which would unfairly limit its use and benefit only large pharmaceutical companies,” he said.
The group argues that returning cannabis to the list of controlled substances would make it inaccessible and expensive, benefiting only a select few. They cite examples from the UK, where medical cannabis prescribed by doctors remains unaffordable for most patients. Instead, they advocate for cannabis to be regulated under specific legislation that supports its medical and economic benefits while protecting public health.
The protest also aims to highlight the need for scientific research in policy-making. The network demands two key scientific evaluations: a comparative study of the health and social impacts of cannabis, alcohol, and tobacco, and a comprehensive review of the effects of cannabis legalization over the past two years. If cannabis proves to be less harmful than other substances, the network insists it should remain regulated under specific legislation rather than narcotics law.
The network also plans to expose the interests of pharmaceutical companies and other large enterprises in influencing government policy. They argue that the current push to reclassify cannabis is driven by corporate interests rather than public health concerns.
Prasit Chai added, “This protest is not just about cannabis; it’s about preventing the consolidation of power and wealth in the hands of a few. The land and its resources belong to the people, and policies should reflect that.”
The protest on June 9 will include a march from the UN building to the Government House, with participants vowing to stay until their demands are met. The network also plans to file a lawsuit with the Administrative Court if the government proceeds with reclassification, citing the significant harm it would cause to small businesses and the broader community.
Contributing Sources: Hfocus
