WHO Conference in Geneva to Decide Future of CBD Regulation

The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently holding a pivotal conference in Geneva, Switzerland, where the future classification of cannabidiol (CBD) is under discussion. The 39th Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD) is evaluating 16 psychoactive substances, including CBD, from November 6 to 10. The committee's recommendations will inform the United Nations on whether CBD should be regulated similarly to other controlled substances, potentially impacting its accessibility worldwide

CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, is being scrutinized for its potential for addiction, abuse, and adverse health effects. The outcome of the WHO's deliberations could lead to CBD being classified as a medical substance, restricting its use to pharmaceutical industries. This possibility raises concerns among patients who rely on CBD for therapeutic purposes, such as managing epilepsy in children, as it could limit their access to effective treatments

Activists and stakeholders are actively participating in the WHO conference to advocate for keeping CBD accessible to the public. Representatives from organizations like FAAAT, including Farid Ghéhiouèche and Kenzi Riboulet, are present to coordinate testimonies and interventions. Notable figures such as Michael Krawitz, Boris Banas, and Raul Ellizalde are also contributing to the discussions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining CBD's status as a dietary supplement rather than a controlled substance

The potential reclassification of CBD by the United Nations could have significant implications for the global cannabis market. If CBD is classified as a medical substance, it would align with international treaties like the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Such a move could restrict its availability and impact the burgeoning CBD industry, which has seen substantial growth in recent years, particularly in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom

In France, the regulatory environment for CBD remains uncertain, with the compound existing in a legal gray area. Despite the popularity of CBD products such as oils and e-liquids, French hemp farmers face challenges due to strict THC limits, which complicate CBD extraction processes. This situation results in a reliance on imported CBD products from countries like Switzerland and the Czech Republic, highlighting the need for clearer regulations to support local producers

Looking ahead, the outcome of the WHO conference could set a precedent for how CBD is regulated globally. Experts and industry stakeholders are closely watching the developments, as the recommendations could influence national policies and the future of the CBD market. The decision will not only affect producers and consumers but also shape the discourse around cannabis regulation and its role in public health