Health networks urge government to return cannabis to Category 5 narcotics list amid rising health concerns

Several health networks, including the Public Health Network for Health Risks Management, Phang Nga Create Happiness Network, and Youth Network Against Cannabis, have issued a statement demanding a review of Thailand’s cannabis policy and a return to its classification as a Category 5 narcotic.

The networks argue that since cannabis was legalised three years ago, Thailand has been facing a public health crisis, with policies lacking responsibility and control. This has resulted in a burden on citizens, particularly children and youth. The statement highlights alarming statistics from the past three years:

1. Cannabis poisoning cases have increased 3.5 times, rising from 30-40 cases per month to 115 cases in the first year of cannabis legalisation.
2. Cannabis dependence cases surged by 6.5 times, from approximately 130 cases per month to over 830 cases.
3. Cannabis-induced psychosis cases have risen 6.5 times, from 85 to 556 cases per month.
4. The number of cannabis-related incidents among tourists has increased from zero to nearly 90 per month, with more than 80% being foreign nationals.
5. Despite measures to prevent cannabis sales without a prescription, underground cannabis sales have flourished, with limited enforcement due to bureaucratic hurdles.

The statement firmly rejects the notion that these issues are mere "side effects." These are lives ruined and a healthcare system burdened by the failures of cannabis legalisation. The networks stress that medical cannabis can be provided without legalising recreational use, which has led to easy access, especially for minors, and the general public being caught in the policy’s fallout.

The networks also addressed the role of the Bhumjaithai Party, which initiated the policy, urging them to acknowledge the mistake and reverse the legalisation to prevent further damage. They suggested that if Bhumjaithai accepts responsibility, reclassifying cannabis back to a Category 5 narcotic would not be a political defeat but a true demonstration of leadership, restoring public trust.

The health networks call on the current and future governments to halt cannabis legalisation for recreational use immediately, to prevent further harm to Thai society.