CANNABIS laws in Portugal are regarded as among the most progressive in the world. However, despite those perceptions, there remains some ambiguity and ongoing debates regarding the legalization and regulation of weed in the country. As addiction becomes more visible in cities like Porto, authorities and citizens groups debate whether to undo Portugal's landmark tolerance approach to drug use and adopt a more restrictive stance.
Weed is still illegal in Portugal, but the country has taken significant steps towards decriminalization and harm reduction. The Portuguese parliament has approved some changes to Ordinance 94/96 of March 26, better known as 'the drugs law'. These changes aim to further decriminalize drug possession for personal use, including cannabis, by increasing the limits for personal possession and eliminating criminal charges for small quantities.
After the boom of CBD, authorities now worry about HHC (hexahydrocannabinol), a synthetic cannabinoid that can be ingested, smoked, or vaped, with effects similar to those of cannabis. The concern is that HHC, which is not regulated, may pose health risks and lead to an increase in addiction rates, undermining the progress made in Portugal's drug policy.
Germany, Europe's largest economy, has announced plans to decriminalize the purchase and possession of cannabis, setting a potential precedent for the rest of the continent. This move aligns with the global trend towards cannabis legalization and reflects a growing recognition of the potential economic benefits and social impact associated with regulated cannabis markets.
Germany's official plan to permit the recreational use of cannabis has been met with both support and skepticism. Advocates argue that legalization will help reduce drug-related violence, generate tax revenue, and improve public health outcomes. However, critics express concerns about the potential increase in drug abuse and the impact on public safety. The ongoing debate in Germany mirrors the discussions taking place in Portugal.
According to Ana Oliveira, Chief Inspector of the National Operations Unit of the Public Information Division of the ASAE (Autoridade de Segurança Alimentar e Económica), Portugal's drug policy has been successful in reducing drug-related harms and addressing addiction as a public health issue. Oliveira highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced approach, combining harm reduction strategies with prevention and treatment programs.
The potential full legalization of cannabis in Germany, if approved, could be a game-changer for drug policy across Europe. As Europe's largest economy and the world's fourth-largest, Germany's decision would provide significant momentum to the global cannabis legalization movement, potentially influencing other countries to follow suit.
In conclusion, Portugal's cannabis laws are considered progressive, but ongoing debates and concerns persist. The focus has shifted from cannabis to new synthetic cannabinoids like HHC, highlighting the need for continuous regulation and monitoring. Germany's potential move towards full cannabis legalization could have far-reaching implications for drug policy in Europe and beyond. The discussions and developments in both countries underline the complex nature of drug policy and the importance of finding a balance between harm reduction, public health, and societal well-being.
