On June 4, 2025, experts from across Europe gathered in Prague for the international conference Psychomodulatory Substances: Current Trends in the Regulation of New Psychoactive Substances. Organized by the Czech Government’s Drug Policy Department in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, the event focused on the growing presence of novel psychoactive substances on the market and the challenges they pose for public health and regulation.
Held under the patronage of Prime Minister Petr Fiala, the conference provided a platform for dialogue between policymakers, public officials, healthcare professionals, and the general public. The central aim was to present the legal framework surrounding psychomodulatory substances in the Czech Republic and explore regulatory strategies at the international level.
The program addressed current trends, risk assessment, and future regulatory pathways for substances such as kratom, low-THC cannabis, and emerging synthetic compounds. Discussions reflected not only the Czech legislative context but also broader global efforts to harmonize policies in this rapidly evolving area.
One of the key voices at the event was Vojtěch Ulman, Chairman of the Association of Responsible Distributors (AZD). Speaking during a panel discussion, Ulman emphasized the importance of clear and science-based regulation that protects consumers while allowing for safe, legal access to lower-risk substances. “We need to avoid reactive bans and instead focus on responsible frameworks that reflect actual health risks, not just public perception,” Ulman stated.
Simultaneous interpretation into English ensured the participation of international guests, further highlighting the cross-border nature of the issue. Conference materials, including presentations and a detailed summary, were made available to attendees and the public.
This high-level event marks another step in the Czech Republic’s ongoing efforts to strike a balance between harm reduction, market regulation, and international drug policy obligations.