These changes reflect a trend towards greater acceptance of medicinal cannabis in France, despite public opinions remaining divided. While a survey indicated that the majority of French people oppose the decriminalization of cannabis, skepticism about the effectiveness of police control measures on the streets has also grown. A recent study revealed that the majority of police officers consider identity checks ineffective for detecting cannabis users.
Current Affairs in Europe:
At the European level, the legal status of cannabis varies considerably among the member countries of the European Union. Spain, for example, regulates the cultivation and consumption of cannabis under certain circumstances, while the Netherlands has legalized the sale of cannabis in authorized establishments known as “coffee shops”. Recently, the EU has experienced changes in hemp regulation, allowing farmers to grow seeds with low THC content, and a legislative debate on cannabis legalization has been initiated.
These developments signal a gradual shift towards more flexible policies regarding cannabis in Europe, reflecting an ongoing debate about the balance between regulation, public health, and individual freedom.
The European Neighbor: Asia and Its Interest in Cannabis
Cannabis, a plant with a long history of cultural and medicinal use in Asia, has been the subject of a growing debate in terms of regulation and legalization in the region. A comprehensive report on the current status of cannabis in Asia reveals various aspects of its situation and regulation in different countries across the continent.
In China, cannabis has historically been used for medicinal purposes, but its cultivation and recreational consumption are strictly prohibited. Meanwhile, in India, where the plant has a deep cultural and religious connection, laws vary by state, with some allowing traditional consumption but prohibiting recreational use.
In contrast, in countries like Japan and South Korea, cannabis is subject to extremely strict laws, with severe penalties for its possession or consumption.
