420 with CNW — Latest Scientific Review Finds CBD Has Potential to Treat Depression, with Minimal Side Effects

A recent scientific review highlights increasing evidence that cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in cannabis, has antidepressant effects on both animals and humans, with minimal side effects. The review also suggests that CBD may contribute to reducing inflammation and encouraging the growth of new brain cells.

According to the study, CBD shows promise as a potential depression treatment. While its antidepressant properties have been noted before, the exact mechanisms driving these effects remain unclear. To address this gap, the paper examines the molecular pathways, safety, and pharmacokinetics profile of CBD.

The study’s authors analyzed recent clinical and experimental studies and found that CBD’s effects are likely linked to its ability to lower inflammation and promote neurogenesis. Regarding how CBD interacts with the body, the researchers explained that its receptor mechanisms are highly intricate. They involve several receptors, such as PPARγ, CB1, 5-HT1A, CB2, and GPR55.

Although the review acknowledges CBD’s potential, it also emphasizes the need for further research into its long-term safety and possible side effects. Recent meta-analyses and systematic reviews generally describe CBD as having a strong safety profile, with only minor side effects, such as diarrhea.

However, the review also points out limitations that hinder CBD’s therapeutic potential. For instance, its limited water solubility and high hydrophobicity make it challenging to use in certain formulations. Furthermore, the therapeutic window may be constrained by CBD’s extremely poor oral-gastrointestinal absorption and its effects, which frequently follow an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve.

Given these challenges and uncertainties around optimal dosing, the authors call for further clinical trials and preclinical studies to refine its application. They stress that this research is vital, as conventional treatments for depression often fall short.

They state that while psychological therapies can benefit many with mild depression, only a small percentage of individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) receive pharmacological treatments, and around 30% of those patients do not respond to standard interventions.

While emerging therapies like ketamine provide rapid relief for some, they come with risks, including neurological, cardiovascular, and psychiatric side effects. Similarly, electroconvulsive therapy, though effective, can lead to cognitive issues, pain, and anesthesia-related problems.

The review underscores the historical use of marijuana for various ailments and the increasing interest in natural compounds like CBD, which offer therapeutic benefits with minimal side effects. It concludes by stressing the urgency of developing effective and innovative depression treatments.

The studies highlighting the therapeutic potential of cannabis compounds like CBD could give companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) opportunities to develop customized products targeting individuals with symptoms that CBD and other cannabinoids can address.

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CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana Industry in the US Braces for Uncertain Times Under Trump 2.0

The year 2024 began with high hopes for the end of marijuana prohibition in the United States. However, as the year winds down, many of those expectations remain unmet.

“The main issue is reclassification,” stated Alex Halperin, a journalist covering the marijuana industry since 2015 through his newsletter WeedWeek. Rescheduling would remove marijuana from the list of substances federally prohibited under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

President Joe Biden had pledged to reform federal marijuana policy during his 2020 presidential campaign, with rescheduling appearing to be the most likely significant step. However, recent developments suggest this change might not occur during his presidency—or at all.

In January, the HHS issued a scientific review recommending marijuana be reclassified from a Schedule 1 to a Schedule 3 substance. This shift would allow marijuana-based medications to gain FDA approval. Acting on this recommendation, the DEA introduced a proposal for rescheduling and opened the matter to public comments in May. Out of over 40,000 responses, 69% favored federal legalization or decriminalization.

Despite this, progress has slowed. Shortly after the public comment period ended, the DEA announced a December hearing to discuss rescheduling. However, the hearing was downgraded to a preliminary discussion and postponed to 2025, further extending the process.

This year’s presidential campaign offered mixed feelings for marijuana advocates. For the first time, both Republican and Democratic candidates expressed support for reform. Vice President Kamala Harris pushed for federal legalization, while Donald Trump endorsed a Florida initiative to legalize adult-use marijuana. Yet these positions have not translated into actionable progress.

Ballot initiatives to legalize recreational marijuana in South Dakota and Florida were rejected, marking the first year since 2017 without new states adopting legalization. Nebraska, however, approved medical marijuana.

Halperin remarked that predicting federal reform under Trump’s administration remains challenging as Republican lawmakers largely oppose legalization, even though younger Republican voters increasingly support it.

While legislative efforts stagnated, parts of the industry saw growth. Delaware and Ohio issued their first licenses for recreational dispensaries after legalization in 2023. Consumption lounges have also gained approval in various regions.

However, concerns over product safety have escalated. In one of his articles, Halperin highlighted the presence of pesticides in regulated marijuana products in California. The exposé spurred further reports on contamination in both marijuana and hemp products, the latter being less regulated and often sold without age restrictions.

In response to growing alarm, the California governor temporarily banned intoxicating hemp goods in September, while New Jersey lawmakers attempted to regulate the market through licensing. However, these measures face legal challenges, further delaying reforms. Meanwhile, federal bills like the SAFE Banking Act, which aimed at improving financial access for marijuana businesses, have also stalled in Congress.

A lot is riding on the policy actions that the incoming administration opts to implement, and those policies could also indirectly affect ancillary firms like Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) that serve marijuana plant-touching businesses in different jurisdictions.

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420 with CNW — NORML Analysis Shows at Least 35,000 Studies Were Done on Cannabis in the Last 10 Years

A recent NORML analysis has revealed that over 4,000 scientific papers focusing on cannabis were published globally in 2024. This marks the fourth year that research output has reached this level.

Since 2014, over 35,000 cannabis-related studies have been released, according to NORML. These publications reflect an increasing emphasis on exploring the plant’s therapeutic benefits and the societal impacts of legalization laws.

Paul Armentano, NORML’s Deputy Director, shared insights in a blog post, noting that the past decade has seen an exponential rise in marijuana research. “Contrary to the belief that cannabis lacks sufficient scientific investigation, researchers have significantly deepened their understanding of cannabis, its active compounds, mechanisms, and its effects on users and society,” he stated. He further called on policymakers to shift their focus from uncertainties about marijuana to evidence-based discussions that reflect current knowledge.

NORML’s analysis involved a keyword search on PubMed.gov, a National Library of Medicine resource. The group reported that PubMed now lists over 49,500 scientific articles on cannabis, dating back to 1840. Interestingly, about 70% of these studies were published in the last decade, and over 90% have been added since 2002.

The research output for 2024 slightly trails the record set in 2022 when over 4,300 cannabis-related studies were published. However, the numbers still reflect a consistent upward trend compared to the previous decade, during which 32,000 studies were recorded.

Recent publications explore a variety of topics. For example, some studies highlight how cannabis legalization has reduced the rate of opioid overdose. Others discuss the plant’s ability to alleviate pain as effectively as morphine, and its role in improving the quality of life for patients with conditions like autism, epilepsy, and chronic pain.

Further research examines the effects of legalization on drug prescriptions. One study found that access to medical cannabis in Utah reduced opioid use among pain patients. Another revealed that incorporating marijuana into state prescription monitoring programs led to fewer prescriptions for narcotics.

Scientists have also delved into marijuana’s chemical components, including compounds like terpenes and minor cannabinoids. A study on cannabigerol (CBG) suggested it could help treat various conditions, including cancer and inflammation.

These studies represent just a fraction of the ongoing research into marijuana’s scientific, cultural, and legal dimensions as legalization continues to expand across the U.S., and federal reforms remain a topic of discussion in Congress. Industry actors like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) hope that this growing body of scientific literature on marijuana helps to shape future drug policy in different jurisdictions.

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420 with CNW — Could the Growing Popularity of THC Drinks Push Alcohol Out of the US Market?

New laws in the United States are making it possible to include THC in beverages, offering what some see as a potential alcohol alternative. While this development is being met with optimism by some, others believe its benefits may vary.

Policies enabling the sale of THC-infused drinks are becoming more common, often placing them in venues that sell alcohol. Minnesota, for instance, passed legislation last year permitting the sale of THC beverages in liquor establishments, and these products have since started appearing across the country.

The 2018 Farm Bill included a loophole that lifted federal prohibitions on hemp-derived products with trace amounts of delta-9 THC. Since 2019, Texas has been licensing establishments to sell hemp products, including liquor stores and bars.

Connecticut implemented a law that confines the sale of THC drinks to licensed dispensaries and liquor stores. Meanwhile, in states without explicit regulations, retailers like Total Wine and More have begun selling these beverages in regions where they are not specifically prohibited.

The popularity of alcohol alternatives has been growing steadily. Yet, whether THC drinks will gain acceptance as a lasting replacement for alcohol or remain a novelty remains uncertain.

Meenakshi Subbaraman, a researcher at UC Berkeley’s Public Health Institute, has studied the possibility that marijuana could aid those who suffer from alcoholism in cutting back on their use. According to her research, marijuana satisfies the majority of requirements for a suitable alternative. However, substituting THC beverages for alcohol’s social component presents a special difficulty.

Subbaraman points out that people who successfully switch from alcohol to marijuana often do so for specific reasons, such as managing pain, improving sleep, or reducing alcohol intake intentionally.

THC beverages often take longer to produce noticeable effects, sometimes exceeding an hour, unlike alcohol. Manufacturers are investing in nanoemulsion technology to shorten this time.

Marijuana and alcohol share similar risks, including impaired driving. As more cities allow marijuana consumption lounges, managing intoxicated driving may become a significant issue. For instance, The Artist Tree, a California-based dispensary with two lounges, trains staff to recognize intoxication, cut off customers if necessary, and even help them arrange transportation. Despite these efforts, marijuana lounges face stricter regulations and higher taxes compared to businesses selling hemp-based THC drinks.

Another obstacle is price. A six-pack of THC beverages starts at around $30, making them less accessible for casual or frequent occasions, such as tailgating events. It is now up to marijuana players like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) to assess the long term market prospects of THC drinks and if they find it a viable line, find innovative ways to bring down the current price of these products.

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420 with CNW — Study Explores the Ethical Complexities Linked to Undertaking Marijuana Research Funded by Industry Actors

Researchers from the Center for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) are exploring the ethical implications of marijuana research that’s largely funded by actors with industry interests. Prior to the recent wave of state-level legalization, studying the potential risks and benefits of marijuana was practically impossible, making the recent rush of cannabis-related studies even more important for the fledgling cannabis market.

These studies give us a glimpse into marijuana and how its use affects humans, particularly in the long term. However, a lot of cannabis research is conducted by actors who stand to make financial gains if the research yields positive results, raising questions on the ethics of marijuana research that’s mostly funded by a for-profit cannabis sector.

Titled ‘Canadian cannabis researcher perspectives on the Conduct and Sponsorship of Scientific Research by the for-profit Cannabis Industry,’ the CAMH study was published in the journal Social Science & Medicine. It found that although researchers are pushed by their need for high-quality research and commitment to helping maintain public health, they are regularly forced into industry partnerships due to systemic barriers.

The study notes that the challenges that push scientists into industry partnerships point to the structural problems that need systemic solutions.

Cannabis research often involves medical conditions that typically don’t respond to conventional treatments and have a notable impact on quality of life. Many of the researchers involved in marijuana research are committed to research efforts that improve people’s lives by advancing our knowledge of the human body and new medications.

CAMH researchers ran a series of 38 interviews with clinicians, academic researchers, and peer researchers from across Canada. Unfortunately, many of them say marijuana’s controlled status at the federal level and the structural barriers arising from its status often force them to make difficult decisions regarding conflict of interest, agenda bias, and scientific integrity.

Some of the study’s considerations included increasing transparency regarding cannabis industry funding, ensuring industry interests don’t influence research agendas, and limiting reliance on the cannabis industry for research funding. Researchers also suggested the implementation of institutional policies that ensure research integrity and independence regardless of the source of funding.

This includes providing concise guidelines that encourage collaborations that benefit public health and manage conflicts of interest effectively. As America’s state-level cannabis industry expands and more people gain access to the drug, such guidelines will be critical to safeguarding the integrity of marijuana research and making sure it is in line with public health goals.

While there are some ethics risks linked to conducting cannabis research sponsored by industry actors, many firms like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) are often interested in uncovering the truth about the effects of this substance so that they can leverage their findings for commercial gain. It would therefore be counterproductive in the long run if they twisted the truth since it would only be a matter of time before any fraud is exposed.

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420 with CNW — Survey Suggests Most American Teens Are Shunning Alcohol, Tobacco, and Marijuana

Drug use in teenagers has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to findings from a recent survey.

This year, nearly two-thirds of high school seniors reported abstaining from e-cigarettes, cannabis, alcohol, or cigarettes over the past month. This marks the highest abstinence rate since the annual nationwide survey began tracking this data in 2017.

Additionally, 80% of students in grade 10 said they had not used any of these substances recently, setting another record. Ninety percent of those in grade 8 said they did not use any of the substances, which is the same percentage as in the prior study.

The only notable rise in substance use was in nicotine pouch consumption, with approximately six percent of high school seniors using them in the past year, up from about three percent in 2023. However, it’s uncertain if this indicates the start of a larger trend. Richard Miech, the lead researcher for the survey conducted by the University of Michigan, commented, “It’s difficult to determine whether this is the beginning of a broader issue or not.”

The Monitoring the Future, funded by the federal government, has been collecting data since 1975. This year’s results are based on responses from roughly 24,000 students in grades 12, 10, and 8 across the U.S.

During the pandemic, schools shifted to remote learning, and gatherings like parties were discouraged. With teens staying home under parental oversight, experimentation with substances dropped significantly. Experts suggest that peer pressure, often experienced in group settings, plays a key role in initiating substance use.

When restrictions were lifted, many anticipated a partial return to previous levels of use. However, even before COVID-19, rates of drinking, smoking, and the use of certain drugs had been declining. Analysts attributed this trend to teenagers spending more time at home and connecting with peers through smartphones rather than in social gatherings, where substance use might occur.

Interestingly, cannabis and vaping, which had been increasing before the pandemic, also saw declines during this period—declines that have persisted since. Some analysts speculate that the lockdowns disrupted a cycle where older students introduce substances to younger ones. Teens who were in grade 9 during the pandemic may have missed opportunities to experiment, which also limited their influence on younger peers, according to Miech.

Mental health might also have contributed. Reports of anxiety and depression surged among teens during the pandemic. While depression can sometimes lead to substance use, some anxious teens avoid drugs, fearing their effects.

This survey dampens prohibitionists’ argument that legalizing marijuana and licensing companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) would result in a spike in underage users of this substance.

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420 with CNW — South Carolina Legislator Files Bill to Legalize Medical Marijuana

A senator in South Carolina has proposed a measure aimed at legalizing medical marijuana for individuals suffering from certain medical conditions. The measure was pre-filed by Senator Tom Davis (R) in preparation for next year’s legislative session.

The legislation closely mirrors earlier legislation introduced by Davis that gained approval in the state Senate earlier in the year but failed to progress in the House of Representatives. If passed, it would allow patients diagnosed with specific debilitating or terminal conditions to access medical marijuana. Conditions covered under the bill include Crohn’s disease, cancer, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, PTSD, and terminal illnesses where patients are expected to have less than a year to live. It also applies to chronic conditions typically treated with opioids.

Patients would need a recommendation from a licensed physician to access medical cannabis. However, the legislation explicitly prohibits the smoking of marijuana and its home cultivation. The state Department of Public Health, in coordination with the Board of Pharmacy, would be responsible for creating regulations regarding the cultivation, distribution, licensing, and oversight of medical marijuana businesses.

The proposed regulations include strict labeling and packaging requirements, particularly to ensure products do not appeal to children.

Local governments would retain the authority to regulate or prohibit the operation of medical marijuana in their jurisdictions. Cities, towns, and counties could also impose specific restrictions, such as limiting the number of marijuana businesses or setting operational hours.

According to Attorney David Ullian of Vicente LLP, a nationwide legal practice that focuses on psychedelics and cannabis, South Carolina has encountered many obstacles in its efforts to legalize cannabis. Ullian pointed out that despite the state’s robust public support for legalization, legislative action has been sluggish. It is unclear if the present plan will receive the required approval to become law because a previous version of this legislation cleared the Senate but stalled in the House.

Ullian noted that South Carolina residents have waited a long time for access to tested and regulated marijuana for managing their medical symptoms. He believes that passing the bill would provide them with a safe and legal way to obtain the treatment they need.

Senator Davis hopes the narrow focus and conservative approach of the measure will persuade hesitant members of the House to support it. The bill mandates physician oversight for patient authorizations and requires pharmacists to handle cannabis distribution, which Davis says aligns with what South Carolinians prefer.

Marijuana firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be hoping that this time round, lawmakers in South Carolina pass a medical marijuana law so that patients who need these treatments can access them legally.

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420 with CNW — New York Marijuana Firms Call for Tax Reforms as They Struggle to Survive

New York marijuana cultivators and processors are pushing Governor Kathy Hochul to approve a measure that would simplify how they handle tax filings, switching the system to an annual basis.

Currently, businesses are required to pay a 9% marijuana excise tax on wholesale prices every quarter. The change would be a minor adjustment to existing regulations but one that could offer significant relief to those struggling in an already challenging market, according to Jaunty co-founder and CEO Nick Guarino.

Companies like Jaunty, alongside Ayrloom and Alliance, collaborated with Park Strategies to draft the measure, receiving support from Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and State Senator Jeremy Cooney. The measure already passed through the state legislature.

The proposed annual tax structure is similar to the approach that has been successfully implemented in the craft alcohol industry, according to Aryloom president Mack Hueber. He maintained that it makes sense to use the same strategy for cannabis businesses if it is effective for craft beers.

According to Hueber, the current quarterly tax schedule creates unnecessary financial strain for cultivators, wholesalers, and processors who are required to submit their tax payments within 20 days after the quarter ends, yet retailers have 30 days to settle their invoices. This misalignment often forces businesses to pay taxes before they’ve received the revenue needed to cover the payments, leaving them vulnerable to late fees.

Hueber pointed out that this adjustment would give businesses the time to collect funds, making it easier to pay taxes without jeopardizing cash flow. Many cannabis businesses are already under significant financial pressure, and he believes fixing the tax payment timing is a logical and easy solution. Guarino added that shifting to annual payments would alleviate the struggle of meeting quarterly deadlines while juggling business expenses and outstanding invoices.

The push for tax reform comes after significant changes earlier in the year when the state replaced its potency-based tax with a flat 9% excise tax. Hueber described the previous tax structure, which calculated payments based on the THC content of products, as extremely complicated and burdensome.

While the shift to a flat tax was a step in the right direction, many businesses, including Jaunty, are still dealing with the consequences of past policies. Guarino shared that his company is on a state payment plan, paying $65,000 monthly to cover back taxes. When combined with current tax liabilities, Jaunty expects to owe approximately $400,000 this month alone. He contrasted the situation with personal income taxes, where the IRS provides longer repayment terms, noting that the excise tax system offers much less flexibility.

Beyond the tax reform bill, two other marijuana-related proposals are awaiting the governor’s decision. One aims to officially classify cannabis as an agricultural crop, while the other seeks to allow farmers to hold market-style events to increase sales. Both the tax legislation and the agricultural bill have gained attention from the governor’s office, raising hopes that action will soon be taken.

The challenge of unfavorable tax policies isn’t only affecting cannabis firms in New York State. Even established companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) have to contend with tax systems that hamstring their potential for growth in many jurisdictions.

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420 with CNW — DEA Requests Judge to Compel FDA Officials to Testify During Cannabis Reclassification Hearings

The DEA is requesting approval from an agency judge to issue subpoenas compelling officials from the FDA to testify at forthcoming hearings regarding the Biden administration’s proposal to reschedule cannabis.

Friday was the deadline for parties involved in the hearing to submit additional materials, including evidence and witness information, to DEA Judge John Mulrooney as part of the pre-hearing process.

The DEA stated in its filing that it plans to subpoena four FDA officials, even though the HHS previously stated that it wouldn’t voluntarily participate in the proceedings. Additionally, the DEA announced its intention to introduce thousands of comments from the public submitted during the rulemaking process as evidence. This is despite the judge’s prior ruling that public comments are not admissible as evidence, warning the agency against attempting to use them inappropriately.

Judge Mulrooney cautioned that overwhelming the court with inadmissible comments could create the impression of a delay tactic, even if unintentional. The DEA defended its position by arguing that including public comments as evidence is crucial for decision-makers, given their significance to the proposed rulemaking. To address the logistical challenges posed by the volume of comments, the agency requested permission to submit them in electronic form rather than as physical documents.

In its recent filing, the DEA also provided details about the anticipated testimony of the four FDA officials it seeks to subpoena. According to the agency, the officials would provide critical information about the medical and scientific evaluations conducted as part of the HHS Eight-Factor analysis, which forms the foundation of the proposed rescheduling.

The analysis examines several aspects of a substance, including its potential for abuse, known pharmacological effects, current scientific knowledge, history and patterns of misuse, risks to public health, dependence liability, and whether it is a precursor to other controlled substances.

The DEA further explained that witnesses would discuss cannabis’ medical use, including its widespread application in states and the recognition of such use by regulatory entities overseeing medical practice. Additionally, witnesses are expected to address how medical marijuana is currently used in the U.S., despite its designation as a Schedule I drug.

The ongoing proceedings have sparked concerns among marijuana reform advocates about potential bias within the DEA’s handling of the rulemaking process. Some view the agency’s dual role as both the proponent of the proposed rule and the entity overseeing the hearings with skepticism.

The marijuana industry, including enterprises like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), looks forward to the next steps of the rescheduling process and the final ruling that will be made on the CSA status of marijuana.

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420 with CNW — Elton John Thinks Marijuana Legalization in Canada, the US is a Grave Mistake

Elton John has been vocal about his stance on the legalization of cannabis, openly criticizing its approval in parts of the United States and Canada. The legendary musician expressed strong concerns about the drug, reflecting on his own experiences and observations during a Time magazine interview.

According to him, marijuana is undeniably addictive and often acts as a gateway to more dangerous substances. Recalling his own struggles, he admitted, “When you’re under the influence—and I’ve been there—you don’t think clearly or make rational choices.” He went on to describe the legalization of marijuana as one of the worst decisions ever made.

John’s opinions are rooted in his journey to sobriety, which he has maintained for many years. During this time, he has also become an advocate for others battling addiction, helping numerous artists along their recovery paths. Notably, he acted as a sponsor for rapper Eminem and encouraged British singer Robbie Williams to seek professional help by attending rehab.

Despite his efforts, there are regrets. One such regret involves the late George Michael, who passed suddenly in 2016 at the age of 53 from liver and heart problems after battling substance misuse.

In retrospect, John said of his efforts to assist Michael, “It’s really difficult to confront someone about their destructive behavior, and even more difficult to accept when you’re the one being confronted.”

John first encountered cocaine in the 1970s through his then-lover and manager, John Reid, which marked the beginning of a long battle with substance abuse.

Looking back, he acknowledges how those years of addiction led to poor decisions and damaging relationships. “When you’re using drugs, your judgment is clouded,” he admitted. “I was so desperate for love that I clung to people and didn’t give them space. It pains me to think about how many people I might have hurt during that time.”

Bernie Taupin, John’s longtime collaborator and lyricist, also reflected on the singer’s struggles during that era. Taupin described feeling immense fear for his friend, calling those years “horrible.”

He noted that John’s substance abuse affected not only their connection but also their creative work. “The projects we worked on during his worst periods weren’t a true reflection of our best abilities,” Taupin explained. “It wasn’t until Elton found his way back to himself that I could draw inspiration from our shared experiences and channel them into meaningful material.”

The sentiments expressed by Elton John aren’t new, and cannabis firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) have heard similar views expressed by those opposed to marijuana legalization. However, the reform movement continues to gain momentum around the world.

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