Following the 2022 decriminalization of cannabis, Thailand is tightening its grip on the herb by prohibiting recreational sales without a prescription. This decision, spurred by public concerns regarding youth access and addiction rates, will reclassify cannabis buds as a controlled substance. The new regulations, signed by the health minister, come amidst a government shift and are intended to revert the policy to focus on medical use only. Industry members and tourists alike have expressed shock and concern over the potential reversal of a billion-dollar industry, with the exact implementation date remaining unclear.
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Thailand is moving towards recriminalizing cannabis, shifting from its 2022 decriminalization, due to the exit of a pro-weed party from the coalition and the lack of regulations. A new Health Ministry notification, effective imminently, mandates medical prescriptions for cannabis use, prompted by the growth of unregulated dispensaries and widespread recreational use. This shift aims to address public complaints and curb issues like cannabis smuggling. Furthermore, a comprehensive cannabis bill is likely to be scrapped, as the government prepares for broader recriminalization, limiting use to medical purposes and requiring a doctor on-site at dispensaries.
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Cayman Islands voters approved a non-binding referendum supporting the decriminalization of small amounts of cannabis for personal use, passing by a 60-40 margin. This decision aims to inform government discussions on policy changes, though cannabis will remain illegal, with penalties for sale and distribution persisting. While specifics regarding the “small amount” and alternative sanctions remain undefined, proponents argue decriminalization will reduce unnecessary criminal records and stigma, potentially encouraging treatment. Opponents express concerns about increased youth usage and the potential for escalation to harder drugs.
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Legalizing cocaine globally, argues Colombian President Petro, could easily dismantle the drug trafficking industry, comparing its potential impact to that of wine sales. He contrasts this with the fentanyl crisis, highlighting its origin in North American pharmaceutical companies and its devastating effects in the US, unlike cocaine’s primarily Colombian production. This statement comes amidst heightened tensions with the US, stemming from disputes over migrant repatriation and threats of tariffs. Record-high cocaine production in Colombia in 2023 underscores the urgency of Petro’s proposed solution.
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During a televised cabinet meeting, Colombian President Gustavo Petro controversially equated cocaine’s harm to that of whiskey, arguing its illegality stems from its Latin American production, not inherent dangers. He proposed cocaine legalization as a means to dismantle drug cartels and redirect funds towards preventative measures against substance abuse. This stance contrasts sharply with Colombia’s longstanding anti-drug partnership with the United States, and further highlights existing disagreements regarding drug policy approaches. Petro also criticized the U.S. response to the fentanyl crisis, blaming American pharmaceutical companies.
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John Q. Hosedrinker