Belgium risks losing its only cannabis clinic due to finance cut

Belgium’s only cannabis clinic faces an uncertain future due to a cut in subsidies.

The Cannabis Clinic in Brussels (part of CHU Brugmann) usually receive subsidies from the Walloon Region of €80,000 as well as €40,000 from the Brussels-Capital Region.

But in 2018, Wallonia reduced its subsidy by 50% and will not guarantee future funding on the grounds that the clinic is located in Brussels. The hospital has responded that one quarter of the patients it treats are from Wallonia.

The clinic told RTBF that it may not be able to continue the service. Founder Isi Pelc said: “It’s scandalous, it has brought health improvements, treating people who are suffering and who without this help, could be potential criminals or future mental health sufferers.”

The unit treats 500 patients each year, and its particularity is that it offers family therapy. In Belgium, one third of young people between the ages of 15 and 34 have already consumed cannabis. While some may be occasional users, others smoke up to five grams a day. Regular cannabis consumption can lead to a lack of motivation, anxiety, paranoia and psychosis.

Photo: © Dirk Waem/Belga