Thai Legal Measures to Legalize People Access to Cannabis Extract for Medical Purpose in Accordance with Obligations under International Laws

Abstract

Even though cannabis is classified as a controlled substance under international drug control conventions with the strictest restrictions, its medical use cannot be ignored. As a result, the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances enable member states to use cannabis and its extract only, but not exclusively, for medical purposes. Thailand, as a signatory to such accords, also enacts internal laws allowing for the medical use of cannabis. However, the state's criteria for manufacturing, importing, and distributing cannabis medications may appear "semi-monopolistic" and present certain obstacles in getting cannabis medicines into the hands of up to 2 million patients. However, if we look closely, we can see that there are still some holes that need to be filled in order for the private sector to play a role as manufacturers, importers, and distributors without violating international law commitments.