Biden Pardons Marijuana Convicts, Highlighting Europe's Varied Cannabis Laws
President Biden's pardons for marijuana possession convicts mark a major shift in U.S. drug policy, contrasting with Europe's diverse cannabis laws
Key Points
- 1President Biden pardons thousands for federal marijuana possession
- 2U.S. states urged to follow with similar pardons at the state level
- 3Europe shows varied approaches to cannabis decriminalization and legalization
- 4The Netherlands and Portugal have progressive cannabis laws but differ in execution
- 5Malta leads Europe with legalization of marijuana possession and cultivation
In a landmark move, President Joe Biden announced pardons for thousands of Americans convicted of simple marijuana possession at the federal level. This decision marks a significant shift in U.S. drug policy and aims to address the disproportionate impact of marijuana convictions on communities of color. Biden's administration is urging state governors to follow suit, as state-level convictions remain unaffected by the federal pardon
Biden's decision is a departure from the 1994 crime bill he once supported, which led to increased incarceration rates for drug offenses, particularly affecting Black and Latino communities. This move is part of a broader trend in the U.S. towards decriminalizing marijuana, with states like New York already reducing penalties for low-level marijuana offenses. Currently, medical marijuana is legal in 37 states, and recreational use is permitted in 19 states and Washington D.C
While the U.S. is making strides in decriminalizing marijuana, Europe's approach varies significantly. The Netherlands, known for its progressive stance, decriminalized cannabis possession in 1972, allowing coffeeshops to sell small amounts. However, full legalization has not been achieved, and legal risks remain for those involved in production or export
Portugal stands out with its 2001 decision to decriminalize all drugs, shifting focus from punishment to treatment. Although marijuana possession is decriminalized, it is not legal to buy. Spain, Austria, Belgium, and several other European countries have also decriminalized personal possession, though public use can still result in fines
Malta recently became the first European country to legalize marijuana possession and personal cultivation, though public smoking remains prohibited. In contrast, countries like Finland, France, and the UK maintain stricter laws, with possession still illegal but often resulting in fines rather than imprisonment. These varied approaches reflect ongoing debates about drug policy across Europe