Is CBD Legal in Russia?
TL;DR: As of 2022, Russia maintains a restrictive stance towards all forms of cannabis, including the non-psychoactive compound cannabidiol (CBD).
Overview:
- CBD is not treated differently from other forms of cannabis and is considered illegal.
- Usage and possession of CBD products are strictly prohibited regardless of THC content.
- Russian law does not distinguish between hemp and marijuana, and cultivation of either plant is illegal.
The global trend towards CBD and cannabis regulation, notably in Europe, North America, and certain parts of Africa and South America, makes Russia an intriguing case. While CBD is known for its therapeutic benefits without the high that THC produces, Russian laws have not eased their stance on this cannabinoid.
Overview of CBD Legislation
Key Terms
CBD (Cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive molecule extracted from the cannabis plant, often associated for its medical benefits. Hemp refers to strains of cannabis with less than 0.3% THC content, whereas marijuana refers to strains with higher THC content. THC is psychoactive and is the chemical responsible for the ‘high’ in recreational cannabis use. Full-spectrum CBD includes all natural cannabinoids found in the plant, while isolate refers to pure CBD.
Legal Landscape
Internationally, the legal climate around CBD varies with a general gravitation towards regulation and legalisation. Despite this, Russia remains one of the countries where all forms of cannabis, including CBD, are not legal.
Legal Status
As of 2022, CBD remains illegal in Russia under federal law, irrespective of its THC content or its medical benefits.
Regulatory Bodies
In Russia, the Federal Drug Control Service of the Russian Federation and the Ministry of Health are the two government bodies regulating cannabis in the country.
Conditions and Restrictions
All cannabis products, including CBD derived from hemp or marijuana, are considered illegal in Russia.
Historical Context
The first prohibition of cannabis in Russia dates back to 1864. More recently, Russia has maintained its rigid stance against cannabis, reinforcing its prohibition in the years following the UN’s initial prohibition of cannabis in 1961.
Possession, Use, Cultivation and Sales
Regardless of the amount, possession of CBD in Russia is illegal. This restriction extends to usage, cultivation, manufacture, and sales of CBD.
Enforcement and Penalties
Penalties for possession, use, sale, or cultivation of CBD in Russia can result in severe penalties, from hefty fines to long-term imprisonment, depending upon the amount detected and the intent behind possession.
There’s currently no differentiation in Russia’s regulations for medical versus non-medical use of CBD. The country does not have a programme or provision that allows patients to legally access CBD for medical purposes.
Comparative Analysis
While many countries are taking steps towards cannabis and CBD legalisation or decriminalisation for either medical or recreational use, Russia stands alongside countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore in maintaining strict prohibition laws about all forms of cannabis, including CBD.
Conclusion
As of 2022, CBD is illegal in Russia, with strict penalties enforced for possession, use, and sale. This hardline stance contrasts with the global trend towards legalisation and regulation. The future direction of CBD legislation in Russia is uncertain, given the current policy climate around this issue.
Read about the legal situation in countries around Russia
- Norway
- Finland
- Estonia
- Latvia
- Belarus
- Ukraine
- Georgia
- Azerbaijan
- Kazakhstan
- China
- Mongolia
- North Korea
- Lithuania
- Poland
