The topic of cannabis legalisation has long been a source of heated debate around the world. If a couple of decades ago, in most countries, the use and possession of marijuana was strictly punished, today the situation is gradually changing for the better. More and more countries are reconsidering their attitude towards this plant, focusing on medical use and issues of personal freedom. Given such active changes, it is worth taking a closer look at which countries currently have legalised weed and where strict prohibitions are still in effect.
Marijuana laws in the UK
The first question that is often heard from tourists and locals is: is weed legal in the UK? The answer is unequivocal – no. Cannabis is still considered a Class B prohibited substance, and its possession, sale or use entails criminal liability.
The only exception is the medical use of cannabis with a prescription from a doctor. Since 2018, doctors have been able to prescribe cannabis-based drugs for several serious illnesses, such as epilepsy or chronic pain. However, obtaining such therapy is not easy, since the process requires the approval of a specialist and a prescription issued strictly for medical reasons.
Thus, the UK is not yet among the countries with soft laws regarding marijuana, and tourists should remember this to avoid unpleasant situations.
Cannabis in Europe
Europe is a region with very different approaches to the issue of marijuana legalisation. For example, many are interested in whether weed is legal in Spain. Here, the situation is unique: officially, the possession and use of cannabis in public places is prohibited, but in private life, the principle of tolerance applies. The country has so-called “cannabis clubs” – private establishments where adults can grow and use the plant together. Tourists have limited access to such clubs, but for locals, it has become an alternative to full legalisation.
The question of whether weed is legal in Portugal is also heard frequently. This country was one of the first in Europe to take a bold step. In 2001, Portugal decriminalised the use of all drugs, including marijuana. This does not mean that it can be freely bought on every corner, but the possession of small doses for personal use is not considered a crime. As a result of this policy, the country has avoided an increase in drug addiction, and the death rate from overdoses has significantly decreased.
In addition to Spain and Portugal, it is worth noting the Netherlands, where cannabis has long been associated with the coffee shops of Amsterdam. Despite the widespread myth, marijuana is not fully legalised there, but rather “tolerantly” permitted. In particular, the possession and sale of limited doses is allowed, but everything is regulated by strict rules.
Cannabis in America
The American continent is one of the leaders in the number of countries where marijuana has received a new legal status. In the United States, laws vary from state to state. For example, many are interested in whether weed is legal in New York. Yes, in 2021, the state officially legalised cannabis consumption for adults. Now New Yorkers can store up to three ounces (about 85 grams) and grow plants at home for personal use. In addition, licensed stores selling marijuana-based products have begun to open in the city.
Canada went even further, and in 2018 became the first G7 country to fully legalise marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes. Now residents of the country can legally buy and consume weed, and the cannabis market has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in the economy.
Latin America also has its own examples of legalisation that deserve attention. The most famous is Uruguay, which in 2013 became the first country in the world to fully legalise the cultivation, sale, and use of marijuana at the state level. Since then, cannabis has become part of the official health and drug control policy there.
Weed in Asia and Oceania
Asia is usually associated with the strictest drug laws. However, in recent years, exceptions have appeared that are worth keeping in mind before planning a trip.
Many tourists and residents of the country often ask: is weed legal in Thailand? Until recently, this seemed impossible, but in 2022, the authorities removed cannabis from the list of prohibited substances. Now it can be grown for medical purposes and used to produce products containing CBD. However, it is too early to relax: the laws are still strict. For example, there are fines for smoking in public places, and specific rules continue to be clarified.
The situation in Oceania also varies. In Australia, much depends on the region. In the Australian Capital Territory (Canberra), since 2020, adults have been allowed to grow up to two marijuana plants for personal use. This has become a kind of precedent for the entire continent.
Global view
If you look more broadly, countries where weed is legal can be found on every continent. In some places, it is completely legalised, as in Canada or Uruguay, while elsewhere only medical use is allowed, or punishments are partially relaxed. In general, a positive trend can be seen, as the attitude towards cannabis is gradually becoming more tolerant.
Another frequently asked question is: is weed legal in Jamaica? Back in 2015, a law was passed in Jamaica allowing possession of up to two ounces (about 56 grams) for personal use, and up to five plants can be grown at home. In addition, Rastafarians have the right to use cannabis in religious ceremonies.
As a result, a picture emerges in which each country goes its own way. In Europe, softer forms of regulation are often chosen; in America, you can find examples of full legalisation; in Asia, changes are slow and cautious; and on islands like Jamaica, laws are often linked to local traditions and culture.
If you are planning a trip and are thinking about trying cannabis abroad, be sure to study the local rules in advance. This will help you avoid unpleasant situations and enjoy your trip calmly.
