Medical Cannabis And Legal Cocaine: The Unusual Permit That Puts Border Laws In Check

Article via El Planteo

Piero Liebman has a clear goal: to prove that access to medical cannabis should be a universal right, transcending borders. On his relentless mission, he has traveled across countries in Europe and Latin America, armed with proper documentation and a powerful message. Along the way, he has encountered surprising curiosities, like a permit in Paraguay that also included cocaine, and complex challenges such as the journey of Tierra del Fuego (an Argentine province) residents navigating through Chile.

These experiences not only reflect the progress in medical cannabis regulations but also highlight the contradictions and challenges that still persist in the region.

Paraguay And Legal Cocaine: A Surprising Authorization

One of the most unexpected moments of Piero's journey occurred in Paraguay. There, the National Directorate of Health Surveillance (DINAVISA) granted him a permit that, in addition to allowing the entry of 10 grams of medical cannabis, also included 2 grams of opioids and 2 grams of cocaine. According to DINAVISA, this authorization was due to a condition of "addiction." While Piero did not use the permit to transport the other substances, this case illustrates the contradictions in drug regulations across the region.

See also: Traveling The World With Legal Cannabis: Fascinating Case Of Lawyer Who Carries Marijuana In His Luggage

"It's a curiosity. It's an example of how laws sometimes take unusual turns without truly considering patients' needs," reflects Piero. This case underscores the necessity for more specific and coherent regulatory frameworks focused on people's well-being rather than ambiguous interpretations.

Chile: When Borders Become Obstacles

Chile presents a different but equally significant challenge. For residents of the southernmost province in Argentina, Tierra del Fuego, crossing into mainland Argentina by land means passing through Chile. What should be a straightforward process often turns into a nightmare for those transporting medical cannabis authorized by Reprocann, Argentina's patient registry. Chilean authorities frequently seize or confiscate these products, leaving many patients without their essential medicine.

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"It's an absurd situation and a matter of sovereignty. These individuals are Argentine citizens but are forced to traverse a neighboring country that doesn't respect their right to health," explains Piero. This issue highlights the lack of coordination in cross-border policies and underscores the urgency of regional agreements to protect patients.

Next Steps: Regional Integration In Healthcare

Despite his significant progress, Piero acknowledges there is much work to be done. Cases like Chile's serve as a reminder that laws must adapt to patients' realities. "We need to work together as a region. Health should not be limited by borders," he emphasizes.

Piero continues to advocate for regional integration that harmonizes regulations and facilitates safe and legitimate access to medical treatments. His mission aims not only to solve individual problems but also to lay the groundwork for structural change in Latin America.

Documentation: The Key To Piero’s Advocacy

Every step of his journey is backed by official documentation. Specific permits, court rulings and authorizations are always on hand, ready to share with those interested in understanding the intricacies of his mission. "Transparency is fundamental in this work. Everything is documented, from permits to legal processes. That's what gives legitimacy to what we do," Piero says.

Piero Liebman's crusade for access to medical cannabis highlights both the advances and challenges in Latin America. From the peculiar authorization in Paraguay to the sovereignty issues with Chile, his experience underscores the urgent need to harmonize laws and ensure all patients can access their treatments without complications.

In a continent full of contrasts, Piero's story serves as a reminder that change is possible but requires perseverance, coordination, and a human-focused approach to healthcare policies.

Cover image made with AI