Colombian Cannabis Reform Hindered by Killings
The extrajudicial killings of fishermen in the Caribbean have interrupted cannabis reform efforts in Colombia, further complicated by the Trump administration's intensified war on drugs in the region.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro, a strong advocate for drug reform, has made significant progress during his administration, which is nearing its end. He has granted a new legal status to marijuana and is also advocating for the regulation of cocaine. This is a critical issue not just for Latin America but for the entire world, where the demand for cocaine continues to grow, leading to increased cultivation, processing, storage, and transportation of the drug in Colombia.
Currently, Colombia faces the aggressive policies of the Trump administration, displaying a level of hostility not seen even during Nixon's era.
Extrajudicial Executions of Fishermen in the Caribbean
The tragic extrajudicial killings carried out by the Colombian government against defenceless fishermen in the Caribbean represent a grim chapter in this escalating crisis. More than 100 people have been murdered in these warm waters.
These fishermen were not put on trial or given a chance to defend themselves; they were killed in the name of the war on drugs. The Trump administration has provided little clarity regarding the contents of those boats. Initial reports suggest they were carrying cannabis, as noted by the New York Times. Historically, the U.S. government has focused more on opinions than analysis in the context of its drug policies.
President Petro stated, "It turns out that many of the boats attacked with missiles weren’t carrying cocaine, but cannabis." He highlighted an irony: "In the U.S., cannabis is legal in many places. The Colombian Congress shouldn’thave allowed its illegality; we lost that vote by just one vote. That single vote has cost the lives of many humble fishermen, with no consequences for American or global consumers." He was referring to the failed congressional vote aimed at giving complete legal status to marijuana, which thrives in Colombia.
This bill sought to amend the Colombian Constitution, which still prohibits cannabis possession despite a Supreme Court ruling and other supportive laws.
As a result, instead of moving forward with cannabis legalisation, Colombia now confronts a threat that hinders all reform efforts, resulting in a senseless and terrifying war that stalls essential initiatives in the country.
More From Soft Secrets:
Colombia: President Wants Cannabis Reform
Colombia Approves Medical Marijuana Sales in Pharmacies
L
Liz Filmer
