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Marchers in Kyiv call for legalization of cannabis (PHOTOS)

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Activists hold a banner reading"March of Freedom" at a rally of the same name in Kyiv on Oct. 28. The marchers were asking for the legalization of the use cannabis for medical purposes.
Photo by Kostyantyn Chernichkin

Activists gathered in central Kyiv on Oct. 28 for the March of Freedom rally to call for the legalization of the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes.

The marchers wanted the government to change a Health Ministry order that criminalized the possession of five or more grams of marijuana, even if it is for personal use.

Speaking on Oct. 12 at a press conference ahead of the march, organizer Taras Ratushny said most drug offenses involve possession for personal use, while prosecutions for drug trafficking are rare.

The marchers went past the Cabinet of Ministers building and the Health Ministry in Kyiv to call for the legalization of the use of small amounts of cannabis for medical purposes.

About 300 to 400 people took part in the march, which was peaceful and good-natured. The march participants were entertained by live and recorded reggae music.