Countries once known for strict anti-drug policies are now enacting cannabis-friendly legislation.
The shift owes much to research into and reporting about the health benefits of cannabis, along with the economic potential of the cannabis industry.
Among the countries where legalization or decriminalization has smoothed the path to broader acceptance of the plant are Canada, Uruguay, the Netherlands, Spain and the United States.
CANADA: A GLOBAL LEADER IN CANNABIS LEGALIZATION
Medical cannabis has been legal in Canada since 2001, making the country a pioneer in cannabis policy; and recreational cannabis has been legal there since 2018. Under the Cannabis Act of that year, adults may buy, possess, and consume cannabis. Each province, however, sets its own rules for sale and distribution.
The cannabis industry in Canada has flourished, generating jobs and tax revenue. Legalization has also provided valuable data for other countries planning to regulate cannabis. Despite some initial supply-chain problems and regulatory hurdles, Canada remains one of the most cannabis-friendly nations, one with a mature and evolving market.
URUGUAY: THE FIRST COUNTRY TO LEGALIZE CANNABIS
In 2013, Uruguay became the first country to legalize recreational cannabis. Under the government-controlled system, adults may grow their own cannabis at home, buy it from licensed pharmacies, or join a cannabis club that cultivates the plant for its members. Uruguay’s approach focuses on safety and eliminating the illegal drug trade.
Uruguay does not allow cannabis tourism: only residents may legally purchase cannabis. In other respects, though, the country’s approach has become a model for countries that are relinquishing prohibitionist policies.
THE NETHERLANDS: LONGTIME CANNABIS PIONEER
The Netherlands, particularly the city of Amsterdam, has long had a liberal policy toward cannabis. Although the plant is technically illegal, the Dutch government has allowed the sale and consumption of small amounts of cannabis in “coffee shops” since the 1970s. Citizens and tourists alike may buy up to 5 grams of cannabis for personal use. But cultivation and large-scale distribution remain illegal.
The Netherlands has been one of the most cannabis-tolerant countries for decades, and Amsterdam is an especially popular destination for cannabis enthusiasts. Currently, the Dutch government is experimenting with legalizing cannabis production in order to regulate the market more effectively.
SPAIN: CANNABIS CLUBS
In Spain’s unique approach, private cannabis consumption has been decriminalized – individuals can legally cultivate cannabis for personal use as long as it remains in private spaces – and citizens can join “cannabis clubs” that have become a popular option for cannabis enthusiasts. Many such clubs operate in Barcelona, which is well-known for its cannabis culture.
Although Spain’s cannabis policies fall short of full legalization, its club model offers a community-based approach to cannabis use that is hard to find elsewhere.
THE UNITED STATES: SLOW BUT STEADY EFFORTS TO LEGALIZE
Although marijuana remains illegal federally in the United States, individual states have increasingly embraced marijuana-friendly policies. Some 38 states have legalized medical marijuana and 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana.
Meanwhile, hemp is federally legal, which means that adults throughout the country can buy hemp-derived products, including THC-infused gummies and drinks. As a result, the hemp market has seen explosive growth over the last few years. Additionally, cannabis is also used in beauty products as well as spiritual practices.
The global cannabis landscape is changing rapidly. Different countries are following different approaches to legalization, decriminalization and regulation. Despite the diversity, though, the general trend is clear. Around the world, cannabis is becoming more acceptable.
