The Programme of Plant Genetic Resources Protection alongside the main task of preserving biodiversity plays also other roles. As a part of this programme, the collection holding over 130 hemp cultivars and genotypes is evaluated and being enlarged at the INF. Hemp was a prohibited crop in many European countries until recently due to the problem of drug abuse. Many valuable breeding materials and local populations were destroyed. Therefore, it is very important to preserve the cultivars and ecotypes of hemp for genetic and breeding research. The INF collection is thoroughly studied and the analyses of different parameters of accessions are conducted under both, greenhouse and field conditions as well as in the laboratory. Currently, the traditional use of hemp in Europe is marginal. The hemp raw material is mainly used in non-garment textile area, such as pulp and paper, automotive and construction materials industries. The Programme of Genetic Resources Protection ensures necessary and consequent evaluation of collected genotypes according to different parameters and direction of use. Therefore, the protection of genetic resources is a main element of breeding strategy for cultivated plants.