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Legal status of cannabis worldwide From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The legality of cannabis for medical and recreational use varies by country, in terms of its possession, distribution, and cultivation, and (in regards to medical) how it can be consumed and what medical conditions it can be used for. These policies in most countries are regulated by three United Nations treaties: the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, and the 1988 Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.[1][2] Cannabis was reclassified in 2020 to a Schedule I-only drug under the Single Convention treaty (from being a Schedule I and IV drug previously), with the schedules from strictest to least being IV, I, II, and III.[3][4] As a Schedule I drug under the treaty, countries can allow the medical use of cannabis but it is considered to be an addictive drug with a serious risk of abuse.[4][5]
The use of cannabis for recreational purposes is prohibited in most countries; however, many have adopted a policy of decriminalization to make simple possession a non-criminal offense (often similar to a minor traffic violation). Others have much more severe penalties such as some Middle Eastern and Far Eastern countries where possession of even small amounts is punished by imprisonment for several years.[6] Countries that have legalized recreational use of cannabis are Canada, Georgia, Germany, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, South Africa, Thailand, and Uruguay, plus 24 states, 3 territories, and the District of Columbia in the United States and the Australian Capital Territory in Australia. Commercial sale of recreational cannabis is legalized nationwide in three countries (Canada, Thailand, and Uruguay) and in all subnational U.S. jurisdictions that have legalized possession except Virginia and Washington, D.C. A policy of limited enforcement has also been adopted in many countries, in particular the Netherlands where the sale of cannabis is tolerated at licensed coffeeshops.[7]
Countries that have legalized medical use of cannabis include Albania, Argentina, Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Malawi, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Rwanda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Others have more restrictive laws that allow only the use of certain cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals, such as Sativex, Marinol, or Epidiolex.[8] In the United States, 38 states, 4 territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized the medical use of cannabis, but at the federal level its use remains prohibited.[9]
Countries with legalized recreational cannabis | ||
---|---|---|
Country | Effective date | Licensed sales since |
Uruguay | December 2013 | July 2017 |
Georgia | 30 July 2018 | Never authorized |
South Africa | 18 September 2018 | Never authorized |
Canada | 17 October 2018 | 17 October 2018 |
Mexico | 28 June 2021 | Never authorized |
Malta | 14 December 2021 | Never authorized |
Thailand | 9 June 2022 | 9 June 2022 |
Luxembourg | 21 July 2023 | Never authorized |
Germany | 1 April 2024 | Never authorized |
Country/Territory | Recreational | Medical | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Afghanistan | Illegal | Illegal | Zahir Shah in 1973.[10] | Production banned by King
Albania | Illegal | Legal | [11][12][13]
On 21 July 2023 the Albanian Parliament voted 69–23 to legalize medical cannabis.[14] | Prohibited but plants highly available throughout the country and law often unenforced.
Algeria | Illegal | Illegal | |
Andorra | Illegal | Illegal | |
Angola | Illegal | Illegal | |
Antigua and Barbuda | Decriminalized. Legal to grow and use by Rastafari.[15] | Illegal | |
Argentina | Illegal[16][17] | Legal | [18][19] | Medicinal cannabis was legalized on 22 September 2017.
Armenia | Illegal | Illegal | |
Australia | Decriminalized in Northern Territory and South Australia.[20][21] Legal in Australian Capital Territory for personal use but not for sale. | Legal at federal level and in all states.[22] Qualifying conditions and other details vary by state.[23] | Australian Capital Territory became the first state or territory of Australia to legalize recreational use of cannabis. Since 31 January 2020 residents have been allowed to grow two plants and possess 50 g (1+3⁄4 oz), though sales or other transfer is prohibited, including cannabis seeds. Federal law also remains enforceable.[24] | In September 2019, the
Austria | Possession for personal use decriminalized as of January 2016. | Dronabinol, Sativex, Nabilone[25] | |
Azerbaijan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Bahamas | Illegal | Illegal | |
Bahrain | Illegal | Illegal | |
Bangladesh | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | [26] but laws are rarely enforced and cannabis is openly sold in many parts of the country.[27][28] | Sale banned in 1989,
Barbados | Legal for spiritual use by registered Rastafarians[29] | Legal[30] | |
Belarus | Illegal | Illegal | |
Belgium | Decriminalized up to 3 g (1⁄10 oz) or cultivation of one plant | Sativex[31] | 3 g (1⁄10 oz) decriminalized for adults since 2003.[32][33] | Up to
Belize | Decriminalized up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) | Illegal | [34] Possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) decriminalized.[35] | Possession prohibited, but use is common and largely tolerated.
Benin | Illegal | Illegal | |
Bermuda | Decriminalized up to 7 g (1⁄4 oz) | Legal | Supreme Court of Bermuda ruled in favor of allowing the medical use of cannabis.[36] As of July 2018, two doctors have been licensed to prescribe the drug.[37] | In November 2016, the
Bhutan | Illegal | Illegal | [38] | Illegal, but plants grow prolifically and have multiple traditional uses, such as feeding pigs and producing textiles.
Bolivia | Illegal[39] | Illegal[39] | |
Bosnia and Herzegovina | Illegal | Illegal | cannabinoids for medicinal purposes.[40] | In 2016, the Ministry of Civil Affairs formed a task force to explore the legalization of cannabis and
Botswana | Illegal | Illegal | [41] | Cannabis (or dagga) is illegal.
Brazil | Decriminalized up to 40 g (1+3⁄8 oz) or cultivation of 6 plants for personal use[42] | Legal for terminally ill patients or those who have exhausted other treatment options.[43][44] | [45] Possession of large amounts, as well as sale, transportation, and cultivation, are considered drug trafficking.[46] | Legislation passed in 2006 to require treatment and community service for possessing small amounts of drugs instead of jail time.
Brunei | Illegal | Illegal | |
Bulgaria | Illegal | Illegal | heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, and MDMA (ecstasy). Until 2004, a loosely defined "personal dose" existed.[47] | Cannabis is classified as a class A (High-risk) drug, together with
Burkina Faso | Illegal | Illegal | |
Burundi | Illegal | Illegal | |
Cambodia | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | [48] but this prohibition is lax and enforced opportunistically.[49][50][51] "Happy" restaurants in cities publicly offer food cooked with marijuana, or as a side garnish.[52] | Illegal,
Cameroon | Illegal | Illegal | |
Canada | Legal | Legal | [53] | Legal for medicinal purposes since 2001 and for recreational purposes since 17 October 2018. The age to buy or consume cannabis varies by province: 19 in most provinces, 18 in Alberta, and 21 in Quebec.
Cape Verde | Illegal | Illegal | |
Central African Republic | Illegal | Illegal | |
Chad | Illegal | Illegal | |
Chile | Decriminalized for possession and cultivation | Legal | [54] and recreational cultivation[55][56][57] decriminalized. Medicinal cultivation legal with the authorization of The Chilean Agriculture Service (SAG)[58] and sale of medication allowed on prescription in pharmacies.[59] | Private personal use
People's Republic of China (PRC) | Illegal | Illegal | [60] | Penalty for possession or consumption: 10–15 days' detention without prosecution and a fine.
Colombia | Decriminalized up to 22 g (3⁄4 oz) or cultivation of 20 plants for personal use | Legal | 22 g (3⁄4 oz) for personal consumption. Individuals carrying greater amounts, or cultivating up to 20 plants, cannot be prosecuted if the drug is for personal use.[61][62][63][64] | Decriminalized up to
Comoros | Illegal | Illegal | Ali Soilih legalized cannabis consumption among other measures.[65][66] | Cannabis was legal in Comoros between January 1975 and May 1978, when president
Cook Islands | Illegal | Illegal | non-binding referendum in August 2022 asked "Should we review our cannabis laws to allow for research and medicinal use?" 62% voted yes.[67] | A
Democratic Republic of the Congo | Illegal | Illegal | |
Republic of the Congo | Illegal | Illegal | |
Costa Rica | Decriminalized[68][69] | Legal[70] | [68][69] | Decriminalized since police officers do not detain people for personal use, yet no amount has been defined as a minimum for possession. Use of cannabis is widespread throughout the country.
Croatia | Decriminalized[71] | Legal[72] | cancer, multiple sclerosis, or HIV/AIDS.[72] | Possession of small amounts is considered a misdemeanor subject to fixed fines. Medicinal cannabis legal for patients with illnesses such as
Cuba | Illegal | Illegal | |
Cyprus | Illegal | Legal[73] | [74] | Class B substance – life imprisonment is possible for use and maximum 8 years for possession (at the maximum 2 years for the first offense for people under 25).
Czech Republic | Decriminalized up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) or cultivation of 5 plants[75][76] | Legal with prescription. Without prescription, sale of products up to 1% THC allowed.[76] | 10 g (3⁄8 oz) or cultivation of up to 5 plants is an infraction subject to a minor fine – mostly not enforced. Medicinal use legal and regulated since 2013.[77][78] | Possession of up to
Denmark | Illegal | Legal (4-year pilot program launched in January 2018 and was extended an additional 4 years)[79][80] | [81] Freetown Christiania, a self-declared autonomous community in Copenhagen, is known for its cannabis trade.[82] | As with all drugs, cannabis-related offenses are punishable by a fine or imprisonment for up to 2 years.
Djibouti | Illegal | Illegal | |
Dominica | Decriminalized up to 28 g (1 oz)[83] | Illegal | |
Dominican Republic | Illegal | Illegal | |
East Timor | Illegal | Illegal | |
Ecuador | Illegal | Legal[84] | 10 g (3⁄8 oz) decriminalized in 2013, but policy was repealed by President Daniel Noboa in 2023.[85] | Possession of up to
Egypt | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | [86] but use is widespread. Convictions for personal use are rare.[87] Formerly a plant of high status with several documented medicinal uses in ancient times. | Illegal since 1925
El Salvador | Illegal | Illegal | |
Equatorial Guinea | Illegal | Illegal | |
Eritrea | Illegal | Illegal | |
Estonia | Decriminalized | With a special permit[88] | 7.5 g (1⁄4 oz) is considered an amount for personal use, and is punished with a fine. Large amounts and distribution are criminal offenses punishable with a custodial sentence of up to 5 years.[89] Medical cannabis is technically legal, but to get a prescription is an arduous process and is practically never given, with a single patient having received Sativex preparation. [90] | Up to
Eswatini (Swaziland) | Illegal | Illegal | |
Ethiopia | Illegal | Illegal | Rastafari movement, possession of cannabis can result in up to six months imprisonment.[91] | Despite being the spiritual homeland of the
Fiji | Illegal | Illegal | |
Finland | Illegal but sometimes not enforced | Legal under license. | [92] | Personal use is generally not prosecuted in court but subject to summary fine. Medicinal cannabis possible under a special license since 2006; in 2014, 223 licenses were issued.
France | Illegal, but on-the-spot fines are usually issued in place of prosecution | A two-year trial program involving 3,000 patients underway[93] | 100 g (3+1⁄2 oz) entails a €200 fine since November 2018,[94] although a judge is still legally able to pronounce a stricter sentence.[95] Medical use of some cannabinoid drugs legalized in 2013.[96][97] | Possession up to
Gabon | Illegal | Illegal | |
Gambia | Illegal | Illegal | |
Georgia | Legal for possession and consumption but not for sale, per a July 2018 ruling by the Constitutional Court of Georgia.[98][99] | Use is legal, but no system for the dispensing of cannabis exists. | |
Germany | Legal for possession, consumption, and cultivation since 1 April 2024. Distribution allowed through non-profit cannabis clubs beginning 1 July 2024. | Legal | 25 g (7⁄8 oz) outside the home, 50 g (1+3⁄4 oz) at home, and private cultivation of three plants, for adults 18 and over, beginning on 1 April 2024. Collective, noncommercial cultivation will be allowed in cultivation associations (i.e. cannabis social clubs) from 1 July 2024.[100][101][102] | On 23 February 2024, the German Bundestag passed the Act on the Controlled Use of Cannabis, legalizing possession of
Ghana | Illegal | Legal only for THC less than 0.3%[103][104] | |
Greece | Illegal | Legal | |
Greenland (Kalaallit Nunaat) | Illegal | Illegal | |
Grenada | Illegal | Illegal | |
Guatemala | Illegal | Illegal | [105][106] | In 2016 a constitutional commission rejected proposals to legalize medicinal or recreational use of cannabis.
Guinea | Illegal | Illegal | |
Guinea-Bissau | Illegal | Illegal | |
Guyana | Illegal | Illegal | 15 g (1⁄2 oz) or over can result in charges of drug trafficking.[107] | Possession of
Haiti | Illegal | Illegal | |
Honduras | Illegal | Illegal | [108] | The possession, sale, transportation, and cultivation of cannabis is illegal.
Hong Kong | Illegal | Illegal | [109] (Chapter 134 of the Law of Hong Kong) | Possession, sale, transportation, and cultivation illegal under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance.
Hungary | Illegal | CBD only[110] | Heroin use has the same legal consequences as cannabis use.[111] | There is no distinction in Hungarian law between illicit drugs according to dangers.
Iceland | Illegal | Illegal | [112] Possession of small amounts is subject to arrest and fine but no threat of jail time.[113] | Banned in 1969.
India | Illegal, but exception is made for the use of bhang.[114] | CBD oil legal, less than 0.3% THC[115] | Albeit illegal, usage is prevalent and some government-owned shops sell cannabis in the form of bhang. States have their own laws regarding cannabis, locally known as ganja. |
Indonesia | Illegal | Illegal | [116] Minimum sentence of 4 years in prison (additional fines may apply) if caught dealing / distributing. Rehabilitation or maximum sentence of 4 years if caught in possession alone.[117][118] | Banned in 1927.
Iran | Illegal, but not strictly enforced | Illegal | hashish over 5 kg (11 lb)[119] but unenforced.[120] | Maximum of capital punishment to possess
Iraq | Illegal | Illegal | |
Ireland | Illegal[121] | Legal as part of 5-year pilot program enacted in June 2019[122][123] | [124] A new strategy was planned for 2017.[125] Cannabis-derived medicines may be licensed since 2014.[126][127] A review of policy on medicinal cannabis was announced in November 2016,[128] and a private member's bill to legalize it passed second stage in the Dáil in December 2016.[129][130][131] | The National Drugs Strategy of 2009–2016 did not favor decriminalizing cannabis.
Israel | Decriminalized | Legal | [132] | As of April 2019, public possession of small amounts is a non-criminal offense punished by escalating fines. A third offense can result in criminal charges, however. Possession in the privacy of one's home is not punished.
Italy | Possession decriminalized; home cultivation legal in small amounts for personal use.[133] | Legal | [134] | Possession of small amounts for personal use is a misdemeanor subject to fines and the suspension of documents (passports or driver's licenses). Sale is punishable by imprisonment, even if in small amounts. Licensed cultivation for medicinal and industrial use strictly regulated.
Ivory Coast | Illegal | Illegal | |
Jamaica | Decriminalized up to 56.5 g (2 oz) or cultivation of 5 plants. Legal for Rastafari. | Legal | [135] | Decriminalized since 2015, and in 2018 the first medical cannabis dispensary opened.
Japan | Illegal | CBD only[136][137] | [138] Use and possession are punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine. Cultivation, sale, and transport are punishable by 7–10 years imprisonment and a fine.[139] | Restricted in 1948.
Jordan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Kazakhstan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Kenya | Illegal | Illegal | |
Kiribati | Illegal | Illegal | |
Korea, North (DPRK) | Illegal, but widely unenforced according to defectors. | Use is legal when prescribed, but no system for the dispensing of cannabis confirmed. | [140] There are conflicting reports on the legal status of cannabis in North Korea. Multiple reports from defectors and tourists claim there is no law regarding the possession of cannabis in North Korea or if there is, it is mostly unenforced. However, other reports claim that cannabis is illegal.[141] | Cannabis is listed in Appendix 1 Narcotics in the DPRK. Narcotics Control Law (2005) states that narcotics may be used when prescribed.
Korea, South | Illegal | Access limited to Epidiolex, Marinol and Sativex as of now due to a policy implemented by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety[142] | Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.[143] | Medical use of cannabis was legalized in November 2018. The plant itself, however, remains unavailable due to a policy implemented by the
Kosovo | Illegal | Illegal | |
Kuwait | Illegal | Illegal | |
Kyrgyzstan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Laos | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | |
Latvia | Illegal[144] | Illegal | 1 g (1⁄28 oz) can result in a €280 fine; for second offenses within a year period, criminal charges are applied. Larger quantities can be punished with up to 15 years in prison. | Possession of up to
Lebanon | Illegal | Legal | [145] cultivation banned in 1992.[146] Large amounts of cannabis are still grown within the country illicitly, however.[147] Cultivation of cannabis for medical use was legalized in April 2020.[148] | Hashish banned in 1926;
Lesotho | Illegal but tolerated | Illegal | [149][150] | Licensed cultivation allowed for export to other countries. Also widely grown for illicit purposes.
Liberia | Illegal | Illegal | |
Libya | Illegal | Illegal | |
Liechtenstein | Illegal | Illegal | |
Lithuania | Illegal | Illegal | Seimas on 11 October 2018. | Medical cannabis is illegal in Lithuania, but a law allowing seriously ill patients to use drugs made from synthetic cannabinoids was passed by the
Luxembourg | Legal to grow up to 4 plants at home for personal consumption. Possession of up to 3 g (1⁄10 oz) outside the home is decriminalized, subject to a fine. Sale remains prohibited.[151][152] | Legal | [153] Home use and cultivation legal since 21 July 2023.[151][152] | Decriminalized in 2001.
Macau, SAR of China | Illegal | Illegal | |
Madagascar | Illegal | Illegal | |
Malawi | Illegal | Legal[154] | [155] Chamba is grown mainly in central and northern regions like Mzuzu.[156] | Illegal but widely used and cultivated; Malawian cannabis is famed internationally for its quality.
Malaysia | Illegal | Illegal | 200 g (7 oz) of cannabis.[157] | Mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers, legally defined as individuals possessing more than
Maldives | Illegal | Illegal | |
Mali | Illegal | Illegal | |
Malta | Legal for possession, consumption, and cultivation. Distribution is allowed through non-profit cannabis clubs. | Legal | Robert Abela announced a proposal to legalize possession of up to 7 g (1⁄4 oz) and the cultivation of up to 4 plants, and for people charged with possession in the past to have it expunged from their criminal records.[158] In December 2021, legislation was passed by the Maltese Parliament and signed into law by President George Vella.[159][160] | On 30 March 2021, Prime Minister
Marshall Islands | Illegal | Illegal | |
Mauritania | Illegal | Illegal | |
Mauritius | Illegal | Illegal | |
Mexico | Legal for possession, consumption, and cultivation with a permit, but not for sale.[161] | Use is legal, but no system for the dispensing of cannabis exists. | 5 g (3⁄16 oz) was decriminalized in 2009.[162] In 2015 the Supreme Court voted 4–1 that prohibiting people from growing the drug for personal use was unconstitutional.[163] In 2018 the Supreme Court reaffirmed the ruling and requested that the legislature update the country's laws regarding cannabis.[164][165] After the legislature failed to act, the Supreme Court in 2021 invalidated laws regarding the personal possession and cultivation of cannabis.[161] | Possession of
Micronesia | Illegal | Illegal | |
Moldova | Decriminalized | Illegal | |
Monaco | Illegal | Illegal | |
Mongolia | Illegal | Illegal | |
Montenegro | Illegal | Illegal | |
Morocco | Illegal but often unenforced | Legal[166][167] | Morocco is among the world's top producers of hashish. |
Mozambique | Illegal | Illegal | |
Myanmar | Illegal but often unenforced | Illegal | |
Namibia | Illegal | Illegal | Cannabis is illegal; in 2007 the government proposed but declined a 20-year jail sentence for any drug possession. |
Nauru | Illegal | Illegal | |
Nepal | Illegal,[168] but allowed during Maha Shivaratri[169] | Illegal | [10] | All cannabis licenses canceled in 1973.
Netherlands | Consumption and sale are tolerated in licensed coffeeshops.[7] Possession of up to 5 g (3⁄16 oz) is decriminalized. Cultivation of up to 5 plants is unenforced for non-commercial use (unless grown in a professional setup). | Legal | coffeeshops in the continental Netherlands.[170][171][172] Cultivation often tolerated but growers can still have their plants and equipment confiscated[173] and face eviction[174] or cancellation of their mortgage[175] for one single plant.[176] Zero tolerance policy in the Caribbean Netherlands.[177] | Personal possession decriminalized and sale allowed only in certain licensed
New Zealand | Illegal | Legal | [178] Possession over 28 g (1 oz) is presumed for supply. Medical use was legalized in 2018.[179] In 2020, a referendum to legalize recreational use failed by a 50.7% to 48.4% margin.[180] | Banned in 1927.
Nicaragua | Illegal | Illegal | |
Niger | Illegal | Illegal | |
Nigeria | Illegal | Illegal | |
North Macedonia | Illegal | Legal | [181] Medicinal cannabis legalized since 2016.[182] | If one possesses large amounts, a jail sentence of anywhere from 3 months to 5 years may be given.
Norway | Illegal | Legal[183][184] | 15 g (1⁄2 oz) are punished with heavy fines and possible loss of driver's license.[185][186][187] Solberg's Cabinet proposed a decriminalization bill in 2021 that would remove all sanctions for illegal drug use, including possession of up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) of cannabis. Six parties (43,8%) voted for, while three parties (56,2%) voted against. As a result, the bill did not pass the parliament.[188][189] | Illegal since 1965. As of 2022, use and possession of up to
Oman | Illegal | Illegal | |
Pakistan | Illegal, but often unenforced (particularly in some tribal regions) | CBD only[190] | Peshawar and the northern parts of Pakistan tends to be tolerated. One may be sent to jail for up to six months if found with charas in other parts of the country.[191] CBD legalized by cabinet announcement in September 2020.[190] | Prohibited, but the smoking of hashish in
Palau | Illegal | Illegal | |
Panama | Illegal | Legal[192][193] | |
Papua New Guinea | Illegal | Illegal | |
Paraguay | Decriminalized up to 10 g (3⁄8 oz) | Illegal | 10 g (3⁄8 oz) of cannabis is not punishable.[194][195] | The possession of up to
Peru | Decriminalized up to 8 g (1⁄4 oz) | Legal[196] | 8 g (1⁄4 oz) is not punished.[197][198][199][200] Cultivation, production, and sale are punished with 8–15 years in prison.[201][202] | Possession of up to
Philippines | Illegal | Illegal but may be allowed with special permit | [203] | Medical use of cannabis is possible with a special permit from the Food and Drugs Authority for use by individuals with serious or terminal illness.
Poland | Illegal, but may not be enforced for small amounts, legal below 0.3% THC | Legal | [204] Possession of large quantities of drugs can result in up to 10 years in prison.[205] | Since 2011, prosecutors can choose not to prosecute possession of small quantities of cannabis for personal use if it is a first offense or if the person is drug dependent.
Portugal | Decriminalized up to 25 g (7⁄8 oz) of herb or 5 g (3⁄16 oz) of hashish | Legal | [206] | In 2001, Portugal became the first country in the world to decriminalize the use of all drugs.
Qatar | Illegal | Illegal | |
Romania | Illegal | Cannabis-derived drugs less than 0.2% THC can be prescribed | [207] Decriminalization proposed.[208] Limited medical use approved in 2013.[209][210] | Small quantities punishable by a large fine for first offenders or 6 months to 2 years in prison if the person has been convicted before. Possession of large amounts or trafficking is punishable by 2–7 years of jail time.
Russia | Illegal | Illegal | 6 g (1⁄5 oz) of cannabis (or 2 g, 1⁄20 oz of hashish) is an administrative offense, punishable by a fine of ₽5,000 or detention of up to 15 days. Possession of larger amounts is a criminal offense. Foreign nationals and stateless individuals who violate the law are subject to deportation regardless of the amount.[211] | Possession of up to
Rwanda | Illegal | Legal[212] | |
Saint Kitts and Nevis | Decriminalized up to 56 g (2 oz) | Illegal | |
Saint Lucia | Decriminalized up to 30 g (1+1⁄16 oz)[213] | Illegal | |
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | Decriminalized up to 56 g (2 oz)[214] | Legal[215][216][217] | |
Samoa | Illegal | Illegal | |
San Marino | Illegal | Legal | |
São Tomé and Príncipe | Illegal | Illegal | |
Saudi Arabia | Illegal | Illegal | [218] | Use and possession for personal use of any kind of recreational drugs is punishable by imprisonment if caught. Imprisonment for personal use can entail jail time of six months or more. Dealing and smuggling high amounts of drugs usually result in harsher prison time or even execution, although recently executions have been rare. Foreigners who use drugs might be deported.
Senegal | Illegal | Illegal | |
Serbia | Illegal[219] | Illegal | organized crime.[220] | Possession of small amounts is punishable by fine or imprisonment of up to 3 years. Sale and transportation punishable by imprisonment of 3–12 years. Cultivation punishable by imprisonment from 6 months to 5 years. Higher penalties for
Seychelles | Illegal | Illegal | |
Sierra Leone | Illegal | Illegal | [221] | Cannabis banned in 1920.
Singapore | Illegal | CBD only | [222] Cannabis is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, making it illegal to cultivate, sell, or possess. Those who are caught with 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) of cannabis or more are considered drug traffickers and are punished with a possible death penalty.[223][224] In rare cases, permission has been granted to use cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals for treatment of epilepsy.[225] | Banned in 1870.
Slovakia | Illegal | CBD only | [226][227] In April 2012, The Wall Street Journal reported that Robert Fico, the incoming Slovak prime minister, might push for partial legalization of cannabis possession, and has argued for the legalization of possession of up to three doses of cannabis for personal use.[227] | Possession of small amounts punishable by up to 8 years in prison.
Slovenia | Decriminalized | Sativex, Marinol, CBD[228] | [229][230] Possession of any drug for personal use is decriminalized.[231] | Cannabis-based drugs are legal for medicinal use, but not cannabis itself.
Solomon Islands | Illegal | Illegal | |
Somalia | Illegal | Illegal | |
South Africa | Legal for possession, cultivation and use in private places but not for sale. | Use is legal, but no system for the dispensing of medicinal cannabis exists. | [232][233][234][235] | Private use and cultivation have been legal since September 2018.
South Sudan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Spain | Decriminalized. Use and possession in private areas allowed for own consumption.[236] Public possession or consumption can result in a fine.[237] Cultivation for personal use allowed in private areas including Cannabis Social Clubs.[236] | Legal[238][239][240] | [241] but misdemeanors punishable by a fine.[242] Cannabis trafficking, including sale, import, or cultivation for sale, is punishable by jail time. Legalized in Catalonia in 2017,[243] but that law was challenged by the state and declared unconstitutional.[244] Cultivation in private areas for own consumption is allowed if the plants cannot be seen from the street or other public spaces.[245] | All actions related to cannabis for own consumption aren't considered criminal offenses,
Sri Lanka | Illegal | Legalized by amendment made in colonial law by 1980s and through the Ayurveda Act.[246] | Ayurvedic traditional medicines.[247] | The sale of cannabis is decriminalized for traditional medicine vendors and it is commonly used in
Sudan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Suriname | Illegal | Illegal | [248] | Cannabis was banned in Suriname in the early 20th century, having been popularized there by Asian immigrants.
Sweden | Illegal | Legal under limited circumstances for patients who obtain a license.[249] | [250][251] | All cannabis-related activity illegal. The national police runs a "disturb and annoy" program aimed at users supported by the national "zero tolerance" policy.
Switzerland | Decriminalized. Legal below 1.0% THC. | Legal | 10 g (3⁄8 oz) without evidence of consumption is not penalized; and as of 2023, confiscated amounts under this limit must be returned to the individual.[252][253] | Since 2017, consuming cannabis in Switzerland may result in a fine, but possession of up to
Syria | Illegal, widely unenforced since the start of the Syrian civil war | Illegal, widely unenforced since the start of the Syrian civil war | [254] | If someone is considered an addict by the Syrian government then they face no criminal penalties for drug possession.
Taiwan | Illegal | Illegal | [255] | Cannabis is a schedule 2 narcotic in the ROC, and possession can result in up to 3 years imprisonment.
Tajikistan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Tanzania | Illegal | Illegal | |
Thailand | Legal for possession, sale, and home cultivation. 0.2% THC limit applies to processed products such as oils and edibles, but not the cannabis plant.[256][257][258] | Legal | [259] Import and export of cannabis are still highly regulated. Cannabis smoking in public areas is prohibited.[260][261] | Criminalized in 1935, medical use legalized in 2018, and recreational use legalized in 2022 for those aged 20 and over.
Togo | Illegal | Illegal | |
Tonga | Illegal | Illegal | |
Trinidad and Tobago | Decriminalized up to 30 g (1+1⁄16 oz), cultivation of 4 plants per adult | Illegal | [262] Decriminalized in 2019.[263] | Banned in 1925.
Tunisia | Illegal | Illegal | [264] Using or possessing entails 1–5 years of imprisonment and 1000–3000 dinars (around $500–1500).[265][266][267] | Banned in 1953.
Turkey | Illegal | Sativex | [268] With permission, this can also be conducted in other provinces as well.[269] Consuming any drug is illegal and requires juridical process. Possessing, purchasing, or receiving any illegal drug is punishable by 1–2 years of prison, treatment, or probation.[270] Sale and supply is punishable by a prison term of 5–10 years, and production or trafficking by a minimum term of 10 years.[270] | Medical cultivation legal in 19 provinces.
Turkmenistan | Illegal | Illegal | |
Tuvalu | Illegal | Illegal | |
Uganda | Illegal | Illegal | |
Ukraine | Illegal | Legal | [271] It was signed into law by President Zelensky on 15 February 2024.[272] | In December 2023, Parliament adopted a bill to legalize medical cannabis on second reading.
United Arab Emirates | Illegal | Illegal | [273][needs update] | In 2008, even the smallest amounts of the drug could lead to a mandatory 4-year prison sentence.
United Kingdom | Illegal,[274] but a cannabis warning or an on-the-spot fine ("Penalty Notice for Disorder") may be issued instead of prosecution for simple possession.[275] | Cannabis-derived medicines may be prescribed only by a specialist consultant.[276] | [277] A class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.[278] Limited medical use legal since 1 November 2018[279] when prescribed by a specialist consultant, not a GP. Guidance: only prescribe when clearly beneficial and no other option available.[276] | Banned in 1928.
United States | Legalized in 24 states, 3 territories, and the District of Columbia – but illegal at federal level. Decriminalized in another 7 states. | Legalized in 38 states, 4 territories, and the District of Columbia – but illegal at federal level.[9] | Schedule I drug at federal level, prohibiting even its medical use. The Rohrabacher–Farr amendment prevents federal enforcement in states that have legalized medical, however. No such protections exist regarding recreational, but the federal government has so far generally not intervened. Recognized Indian reservations are allowed to legalize for either use under a policy announced in 2014.[280] Every U.S. state that has legalized recreational use has set a mandatory legal minimum age of 21 for purchase, possession, and use.[281] In 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Justice indicated they were planning to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III.[282] | Cannabis remains a
Uruguay | Legal, but buying prohibited for non-residents. Cultivation allowed up to six plants. Cannabis Social Clubs authorized up to 45 members | Legal for all uses. | [283] Buyers must be eighteen or older, residents of Uruguay, and must register with the authorities. Authorities grow the cannabis that can be sold legally.[284][285][286] Non-profit Cannabis Clubs can also operate.[287] The minimum age to purchase or obtain cannabis in Uruguay is 18.[288] | Legal since late 2013.
Uzbekistan | Illegal | Illegal | [289] | Opiates, cannabis and other plants containing psychotropic substances are illegal.
Vanuatu | Illegal | Legal | |
Vatican City | Illegal | Illegal | |
Venezuela | Illegal | Illegal | 20 g (3⁄4 oz) of marijuana or 5 g (3⁄16 oz) of genetically modified marijuana for commercial purposes is punishable by 1–2 years in prison at judge's discretion. If deemed to be for personal consumption, the user is subject to security measures involving rehabilitation and detoxification procedures.[290] | Possession of up to
Vietnam | Illegal | Illegal | |
Yemen | Illegal | Illegal | |
Zambia | Illegal | Legal | |
Zimbabwe | Illegal | Legal | |
Country/Territory | Recreational | Medical | Notes |
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