In a history-making political decision, Canada is currently preparing for the legalisation of recreational cannabis, known as the Cannabis Act, which would make it the first G7 nation to do so. How will this affect Europe’s stance on the matter?
The legalisation of cannabis has been an ongoing discussion for many years, with a number of organisations and individuals coming forward to explain how it has helped their lives. Now, Canada is set to join California and legalise the use with the Cannabis Act.
It was recently reported that Quebec, Canada, has now adopted a law that lays out guidelines for the sale and distribution of cannabis in that area.
Response to this new legislation has been mixed, however, it seems that Europe is beginning to take notice, with five Danish political parties recently reported to be supporting the legalisation of cannabis. So, what does this mean for the continent?
What is Europe’s stance on cannabis?
A number of European countries have already relaxed their laws around cannabis. The question remains whether the rest of Europe will follow this trend.
In a report on the BBC in 2016, MPs claimed that legalising cannabis could earn the UK Treasury £1bn (~€1bn) a year in tax revenue.
Then deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said: “British politicians need to open their eyes to what is happening in the rest of the world.
“Cannabis prohibition is being swept away on a tide of popular opinion and replaced with responsible legal regulation.
“Now is the time for ministers to start writing the rules for this legal market, including age limits and health warnings, so that we can finally take back control from the criminal gangs.”
What are the health benefits of cannabis use?
Use of cannabis for medical purposes has been commonplace for many years, treating conditions like glaucoma, certain types of pain and potentially certain kinds of childhood epilepsy.
It has been known, according to various types of research, to help treat some of the following conditions:
- Cancer;
- Depression;
- Autism;
- Seizures;
- Multiple sclerosis; and
- Arthritis.
