Legalization of marijuana is becoming an increasingly hot topic in many countries around the world. In 2024, we are witnessing significant changes in legislation that affect approaches to cannabis use and regulation. In this article, we will look at which countries have legalized marijuana, in particular in Europe, and also consider medical cannabis and the current state of legalization in Ukraine.
Which countries will legalize marijuana in 2024?
In 2024, several countries have already recognized the legalization of marijuana as a necessary step in the social and economic spheres. Among the most notable examples:
- Canada: Canada became the first major country to legalize marijuana for recreational use in 2018. In recent years, the cannabis market has continued to develop, and the state actively controls the quality of products.
- United States of America: In the United States, marijuana legalization is taking place at the state level. In 2024, more than 20 states have already authorized the use of cannabis for recreational purposes, including California, Colorado, Massachusetts, and others. However, marijuana remains illegal at the federal level.
- Uruguay: Uruguay became the first country to legalize marijuana for recreational use in 2013. Since legalization, the country has been controlling the sale of cannabis through pharmacies and consumer registration.
Legalization of marijuana in Europe
Europe is also actively moving towards the legalization of marijuana. Although legislation varies significantly from country to country, some have already implemented legalization or decriminalization.
- The Netherlands: The Netherlands is known for its cannabis tolerance policy, although no official legalization has taken place. In 2024, the country continues to develop its system of “coffee shops” where cannabis is legally sold for consumption.
- Portugal: In 2001, Portugal decriminalized all drugs, including marijuana. This means that consumption is not a criminal offense, although legalization for sale has not yet been implemented.
Legalization of marijuana in Germany in 2024
In April 2024, the German authorities partially legalized marijuana. According to the new rules, adult citizens can possess up to 50 grams of cannabis at home and grow up to three cannabis plants for personal use. However, the sale of marijuana remains prohibited.
Germany is also actively implementing medical cannabis programs, which have been legalized since 2017. Patients have the opportunity to receive cannabis-based medications with a doctor's prescription, purchase CBD products, and more, which can improve the quality of life for many people.
In which countries is medical cannabis legalized?
Medical cannabis is legalized in many countries, which indicates the recognition of its medicinal properties. The countries where medical cannabis is legalized include:
- Canada: In 2001, Canada legalized medical cannabis. The supply system for cannabis-based medicines is well developed.
- Australia: In 2016, Australia legalized medical cannabis and since then the country has been actively developing its medical program.
- Israel: Israel is one of the pioneers in medical cannabis research, having legalized its use back in the 1990s. The country continues to actively develop research and treatment programs.
- New Zealand: In 2020, New Zealand also joined the list, allowing patients to obtain cannabis-based medicines with a doctor's prescription.
Legalization of marijuana in Ukraine
In Ukraine, the legalization of medical cannabis has been discussed for several years. During the 2020 elections, a poll was conducted that showed that 65% of respondents support the legalization of its medical use. In 2021, a draft law was prepared, but the Verkhovna Rada did not adopt it.
Since the outbreak of war, the issue of legalizing medical cannabis has become even more important, as cannabis-based medicines can be useful for treating post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), anxiety, and amputations and other injuries sustained in war.
The Law 3528-IX, which has already entered into force, is aimed at state regulation of the circulation of plants of the Cannabis genus, their resins, extracts, tinctures, as well as tetrahydrocannabinol and its isomers. The main areas of use include:
- medical purposes;
- industrial purposes;
- scientific and scientific and technical activities.
This law creates conditions for patients to have access to the necessary treatment for cancer and other diseases, as well as alleviates the effects of post-traumatic stress disorders caused by war. This is especially important for people suffering from chronic pain, as it can lead to depression and suicidal thoughts.
The legalization of marijuana is a complex and multifaceted process that is underway in many countries around the world in 2024. From Canada to Germany to Ukraine, societies are gradually changing their views on the use of cannabis. Both medical and recreational cannabis are becoming important topics of discussion.
It should be remembered that legalization not only affects the criminal situation, but also opens up new opportunities for the development of medical programs and the economy. Changes in marijuana legislation can have a significant impact on the quality of life of many people, as well as on the overall state of society.
