The training program on Harm Reduction for prospective associations working in this sector has been announced.

As an important part of the reform on responsible Cannabis use, the training and certification program has now been announced for all those involved in Cannabis Harm Reduction Associations (CHRA). These associations will be licensed under a stricter regime to provide regulated access to a limited amount of cannabis for personal use to their members only.

During a press conference, the Cannabis Regulation Authority explained that following the publication of the Harm Reduction directive, which provides clear guidelines for the operation of prospective associations, this training and certification initiative will further strengthen the education policy. Prospective associations in this sector will be able to work with studied practices and eventually provide relevant information and insights to researchers and policymakers in our country.

Rebecca Buttigieg, the Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality, emphasized that from the very beginning of the reform, the government aimed to remove the stigma of criminalization and continued to combat cannabis trafficking through comprehensive legislation. She stated that the Harm Reduction strategy aims to weaken the illegal market by providing legitimate access to cannabis under scrutiny from competent officials, ensuring that cultivation, transportation, storage, and distribution of cannabis adhere to defined criteria.

“It is futile and only does harm to continue issuing criminal tickets to individuals who possess cannabis. We are not doing any good by doing so. These citizens do not need to be judged; they need our help by providing them with alternative routes to avoid the risks and dangers of a commercial market flooded with drug trafficking,” said the Parliamentary Secretary.

Leonid McKay, Chairperson of the Cannabis Regulation Authority, stated that when discussing Harm Reduction, it is often limited to the policy that addresses the harm caused by cannabis consumption. McKay added that the Authority aims to fulfill its role by fostering discussion in the spirit of public health protection. He stated that it has always been clear that the role of the Authority is not to promote cannabis use, but rather to provide a regulated source as an alternative to the illicit market. The Harm and Risk Reduction policy recognizes that individuals who use cannabis should not be forced into treatment or end up in the criminal justice system.

“Harm Reduction to me also means explaining certain risks that are even more dangerous than those we usually talk about, including the risks of a commercialized market where existing users may start attracting new ones through aggressive marketing and promotion,” concluded Mr. McKay.

Karen Mamo, Manager at the Cannabis Regulation Authority, emphasized the primary goals of the Harm and Risk Reduction principle within a regulated framework based on a non-profit system. Ms. Mamo explained that the Authority will adopt a comprehensive approach and ensure that language, policies, and research work together to promote responsible use while creating an environment free from social stigma.

Meanwhile, it was also announced that the Authority will organize a series of thematic roundtable discussions focusing on cannabis, public health, and sustainable development. They will actively engage with the community members who use and cultivate cannabis through meet and greet events.

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