Malta Legalizes Cannabis for Personal Use, Setting EU Precedent
Malta becomes the first EU country to legalize cannabis for personal use, allowing adults to possess and cultivate limited amounts at home
Key Points
- 1Malta legalizes cannabis for personal use, a first in the EU
- 2Adults can possess up to seven grams and grow four plants
- 3Opposition fears normalization of drug use; trafficking remains illegal
- 4New authority will oversee cannabis regulation in Malta
- 5Malta's reform contrasts with other EU countries' approaches
Malta has made history by becoming the first EU country to legalize cannabis for personal use, a move approved by its parliament. This new legislation allows adults over the age of 18 to possess up to seven grams of cannabis and grow up to four plants at home. The reform, championed by Prime Minister Robert Abela, aims to reduce reliance on the black market and regulate the sector responsibly
Despite the groundbreaking nature of the legislation, it has faced criticism from Malta's opposition Nationalist party, which fears it could normalize drug use. However, the law strictly prohibits drug trafficking and imposes fines for public consumption or possession of larger amounts. Non-profit organizations are permitted to cultivate cannabis for distribution among their members, provided they adhere to specific location restrictions
The law will be enforced by a newly established Authority on the Responsible Use of Cannabis. Malta's approach contrasts with other EU countries like Luxembourg and Germany, which are considering similar reforms. Previously, Malta had decriminalized small amounts of cannabis possession and allowed its medical use, reflecting a growing tolerance in the nation's attitude towards cannabis