GA Third Committee took an interesting turn as the Right to food debate brought an unexpected supplement until an open trade can be established for food production: the usage of certain strains of marijuana and placenta pills. Panama opened a discussion on the floor during moderated caucusing Saturday evening stating that marijuana could be prepared in edibles in Panama’s suggested usage, although understood that each country may adapt to their own and use alternative methods of marijuana. 

Representative Teddy Holthaus of Panama recognized smoking as an alternative, stating “We understand that smoking would be a likely method of consumption, and we would encourage nations to create designated smoking areas as they would for other tobacco products.” 

In response, Djibouti expressed concerns about the possible negative effects of an introduction of marijuana as a temporary alternative food source. “We’re worried about addiction” remarked Representative Ava Kegler of Djibouti, “and if there is a solution to, or any way to prevent that from happening. It’s a big factor of smoking or just consuming any marijuana product.” 

The CDC lists a study that approximately three in 10 people that use marijuana have a “marijuana use disorder.” Then, taking another turn during the session, Columbia spoke on the floor about a possible addition to the resolution: placenta pills. 

Columbia reasoned that the placenta pills are a means of nutrition and healthcare not only to the mother but also for the child. Representative Crystal Ramirez of Columbia commented on the relevance of the resolution as “We strongly believe access to food is the most important. If there is a way to establish access to food and nutritious food, such as placenta pills, then we should.” Columbia also reiterated that placenta pills would have a positive impact through nutrition and healthcare since “the benefits are non-GMO [genetically modified organisms], all natural and self made,” Representative Ramirez remarked.

While some Member States seem to be considering the idea, other Member States, such as Belarus, relay skepticism that either of these possibilities are beneficial or realistic. “We do not support the usage of marijuana in the global economy as a solution for the food crisis because it does not directly correlate with food production or dispersion.” Representative Casey Davidson of Belarus stated. 

Representative Jaden Soller of Belarus continues, “Moreover, the implementation of another drug into developing countries can take advantage of their tense state and nature to rely upon other drugs to relieve stress, evident by the qat addiction in Yemen. Therefore, it is yet another ploy for wealthy nations to criminalize developing countries by promoting addiction without restriction and education for safe usage.” 

It is yet to be determined whether or not this will be a drafted resolution, but as Representative Teddy Holthaus of Panama urged his fellow Member States, “Go Green!”