Image: TOBIAS SCHWARZ (AFP)
The German government is moving forward with its plans for the limited legalization of cannabis. In recent years, there has also been a global trend towards the decriminalization of cannabis away. An overview:
Europe
The Netherlands are practically a classic when it comes to cannabis: Possession, consumption and sale of up to five grams in “coffee shops” have been permitted since 1976. Cultivation and sale on a large scale are prohibited, and criminal gangs are mainly active in this area. The Netherlands was also the first EU country to allow medicinal use of cannabis in 2003. The medicinal use of the drug is now permitted in around 30 countries around the world.
In Spain cultivation for personal use in private rooms is tolerated. Trading and consumption in public are prohibited.
The neighboring country Portugal decriminalized personal use and possession of limited amounts of the drug in 2001. However, consumers can be fined, which they can avoid through addiction treatment.
Malta allowed possession of up to seven grams of cannabis and cultivation of up to four plants for citizens aged 18 and over in late 2021. From seven grams and up to 28 grams, the consumer risks a fine of 100 euros. Consumption in public and in front of minors remains prohibited.
In Luxembourg the cultivation and consumption of small amounts of cannabis for recreational use in a private setting has been permitted since June. Four cannabis plants may be grown per household.
Latin America
The Little Republic Uruguay 2013 legalized the cultivation, distribution and consumption of cannabis. Drugs are available to users in three ways: by growing them at home for their own use, as a member of a cannabis club, or by purchasing them from a pharmacy. But only those who live in Uruguay can buy marijuana.
In Mexico In June 2021, the Supreme Court decriminalized recreational cannabis use. Then, in May 2022, the country relaxed the criteria for ownership. In Peru Can marijuana be used for private purposes?
North America
In the USA Federal law prohibits the cultivation, sale and use of cannabis. However, recreational use has been legalized in 19 states. Last fall, US President Joe Biden pardoned those convicted at the federal level of simple cannabis possession.
Canada legalized recreational cannabis in October 2018. Legislation limits personal possessions to 30 grams and four plants per household. It is up to the provinces to organize sales in authorized state or private shops.
Africa
In South Africa In 2018, the highest court declared unconstitutional a law banning the use and cultivation of cannabis at home. However, the ruling does not decriminalize the public use of the drug, nor its marketing.
Source: Nachrichten
