Countries where Cannabis - Marijuana is Legal

Overview of Countries Where Cannabis is Legal

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, has been a controversial topic for decades. The drug has been illegal in many countries, but in recent years, there has been a shift towards legalization in certain parts of the world.

Currently, there are several countries where cannabis is legal for either medical or recreational use, or both. These include:

1. Canada: In 2018, Canada became the second country in the world to legalize cannabis for recreational use, after Uruguay. Adults over the age of 18 can purchase and possess cannabis from licensed dispensaries.

2. Uruguay: Uruguay was the first country to legalize cannabis for both medical and recreational use in 2013. Citizens are able to purchase cannabis from licensed pharmacies and also have the option to grow their own plants at home.

3. Portugal: Portugal decriminalized the possession and use of all drugs, including cannabis, in 2001. This means that individuals found in possession of small amounts of cannabis are not subject to criminal prosecution, but may be subject to administrative penalties.

4. Spain: Spain has a policy of "personal cultivation" which allows individuals to grow cannabis for personal consumption, but it is illegal to sell it. However, there are private clubs where members can consume cannabis on the premises.

5. Netherlands: Although cannabis is technically still illegal in the Netherlands, the possession of small amounts for personal use is tolerated and can be purchased at "coffee shops" throughout the country.

6. South Africa: In 2018, the Constitutional Court of South Africa ruled that the use, possession, and cultivation of cannabis by adults in private spaces is legal. However, the sale and distribution of cannabis remains illegal.

These are just a few examples of countries where cannabis is legal to varying degrees. As the debate over cannabis legalization continues, it is likely that more countries will consider changing their laws in the future.

In addition to the countries mentioned above, cannabis is also legal in certain states in the United States.

1. California: In 2016, California became the first state in the US to legalize cannabis for recreational use. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can also grow up to six plants at home.

2. Colorado: Colorado was one of the first states to legalize cannabis for recreational use in 2012. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can also grow up to six plants at home.

3. Alaska: Alaska legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2014. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can also grow up to six plants at home.

4. Oregon: Oregon legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2014. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can also grow up to four plants at home.

5. Massachusetts: Massachusetts legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2016. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can also grow up to six plants at home.

6. Nevada: Nevada legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2016. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can also grow up to six plants at home.

7. Michigan: Michigan legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2018. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and can also grow up to 12 plants at home.

8. Washington: Washington legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2012. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can also grow up to six plants at home.

9. Maine: Maine legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2016. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and can also grow up to three plants at home.

10. Vermont: Vermont legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2018, becoming the first state to do so through the legislative process rather than a voter initiative. Adults over the age of 21 can possess up to one ounce of cannabis and can grow up to six plants at home.

Apart from above mentioned states, cannabis is also legal for medical use in 36 states, including Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, and West Virginia.