Despite a groundbreaking medical cannabis trial that began in 2021 and demonstrated significant benefits for patients, France has yet to legalize medical marijuana. The pilot program, which involved up to 3,000 patients suffering from chronic conditions like cancer and epilepsy, was extended multiple times but is now set to conclude in mid-2025. However, no clear path toward legalization has been established.

The French government has cited political and regulatory hurdles as reasons for the delay. While the trial yielded overwhelmingly positive results—91% of participants supported legalization—critics argue that political instability and a lack of prioritization have stalled progress. Without a national framework, patients may lose access to life-changing treatments or turn to unregulated sources.

For more details on this issue, read the full report on RFI.