Bosnia and Herzegovina legalise cannabis for medical use

Liz Filmer
21 Jan 2026

On December 29, 2025, the Council of Ministers for Bosnia and Herzegovina established regulations for medical cannabis after years of advocacy from patients.This law allows patients to legally access medical cannabis, which they previously could only obtain through the grey market or from foreign sources.


 Cannabis, including its resins, extracts, and tinctures, will now be monitored instead of banned, making it available for medical purposes, according to a press release from the Council.

This decision followed ongoing efforts from lawmakers, patients, and doctors who promoted the health benefits of cannabis-based treatments.Saša Magazinović, a member of the Social Democratic Party in the BiH Parliament, announced the decision on social media. He described it as a milestone after years of overcoming institutional barriers.

“After years of effort, obstruction, and determination… FINALLY!” Magazinović said. “The Council of Ministers has decided to legalize cannabis for medical use.”

He highlighted earlier advocacy efforts, including discussions where patients shared their positive experiences with cannabis oil in treating serious illnesses, which helped build support for change. He also expressed gratitude to Minister of Civil Affairs Dubravka Bošnjak for her assistance in overcoming institutional obstacles.

This legalisation puts Bosnia and Herzegovina in a group with 21 other European countries that have adopted medical cannabis programs.

Ther council said in a statement, The implementation will be gradual. Authorities will establish licensing requirements and oversight to protect patients and prevent misuse. “Further updates to the regulations will clarify the application of medical substances, which the Agency for Medicines and health authorities will manage,” 

Magazinović cautioned that, while this decision is a significant step, more work lies ahead.

“The most important step has been taken, but the details matter,” he said. “We will continue, and the path is much clearer now.”

What do the new laws cover for medical cannabis?

- Requiring a doctor’s prescription and approval  
- Mandatory record-keeping  
- Regulation of production and distribution  
- Limitations on sales and storage  
- Monitoring to ensure quality control  

More From Soft Secrets:

Slovenia Considers Legalising Cannabis

Decriminalisation Law Approved in Czech Republic

 

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Liz Filmer