The VAC Roundtable - United Nations Side Event 2026: CBD-Rich Cannabis - Policy and Patient Experience

Organized by the Veterans Action Council, Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, with the support of the DRCNet Foundation, the European Coalition for Just and Effective Drug Policies (ENCOD), Fields of Green for ALL NPC, the Law Enforcement Action Partnership, the Veterans Action Council, and the Veterans for Medical Cannabis Access

Since 1996, U.S. states have developed programs allowing patient access to cannabis for medical and scientific use. Within these systems, pioneering cultivators identified CBD-rich varieties, including Harlequin. This side event will examine policy developments, patient experiences with Harlequin, and the INCB’s 2023 position encouraging member states to facilitate access to CBD-rich cannabis medicinal products. It will also address how treaty-aligned regulatory frameworks can support sensible oversight that protects patients through consumer protections, including quality standards, labeling, and transparency. Patients and caregivers will share their lived experiences while honoring those who dedicated their lives to achieving the best possible patient outcomes.

The gathering was also a tribute to beloved VAC member Wade Laughter, whose lifelong dedication to cannabis advocacy and patient access continues to inspire the movement. In his honor, we welcomed his widow, Monica Senter, who shared reflections on Wade’s work and legacy, alongside a patient advocate and father, Forrest Hurd, whose child’s life was saved by CBD-rich cannabis medicines used to treat severe epilepsy. Forrest also shares a very powerful video presentation of his ongoing work that is not to be missed. Their stories grounded the policy discussion in lived experience, reminding the international community that behind every regulatory decision are real families whose lives depend on safe and legal access to cannabis-based therapies.

Originally Premiered Mar 13, 2026 VIENNA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE (VIC)

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