The report critically examines Belarus's current approach to drug policy, which continues to rely heavily on criminalization and imprisonment rather than harm reduction and health-centered strategies.
The Legalize Belarus movement, founded in 2017 as an informal initiative by activists advocating for the humanization of Belarusian drug policy, has announced plans to formalize its activities at a founding meeting on December 8, 2024, in Poznań, Poland. The organization aims to ensure long-term sustainability and continuity of leadership by adopting a charter and introducing mechanisms to prevent conflicts of interest.
The proposed bill "On Amendments to the Codes on Criminal Liability" could significantly improve the situation for users of controlled substances in Belarus. However, Legalize Belarus expresses concerns about the practical application of these legislative changes, as procedural violations often lead to the wrongful classification of offenses under Article 328.
Elena is 68 years old and suffers from coxarthrosis and polyarthrosis of large joints. The woman used cannabis oil to relieve pain and improve sleep quality, but one day police officers knocked on her door. Elena shared her story with Legalize Belarus.
Risto Mikkonen, a representative of The Turku Region Cannabis Association, was invited as a speaker at the School of Humane Drug Policy, which took place from May 9 to 13 in Lithuania. He shared his impressions of the event and told how it was.
Mixing psychoactive substances significantly increases the risk of adverse effects and is one of the causes of fatal overdoses. With the help of a telegram bot, anyone can quickly check how safe it is to combine certain substances.
Some people prefer to use cannabis alone, while others like to get together with friends and family to smoke it together. Following the rules of etiquette will help everyone feel comfortable and get the most out of spending time together.
Alina (name changed) shared with Legalize Belarus the story of her husband’s detention. They raised their daughter together, who now may not see her father for a long time.
Nikita (name changed) shared with Legalize Belarus the story of his friend facing persecution under Article 328 based on another person's testimony.
Ignat (name changed) met with his acquaintance, and soon contact with him was lost.