Switzerland: Legalisation Under Public Consultation
The government is inviting feedback on the proposal.
Understanding cannabis policy in Switzerland can be complicated. Several legalisation projects have been initiated, but the country has often reversed course. Currently, the Swiss government has launched a public consultation regarding a new legalisation initiative.
The proposed legalisation of cannabis for non-medical purposes for adults could soon take shape. The government is inviting feedback on this legalisation proposal.
What is the Swiss Cannabis Experiment?
Since 2023, pilot trials for the sale of regulated cannabis have been conducted in several Swiss cities. The outcomes of these trials have been positive; however, they involve only a limited number of participants—approximately a few thousand—and are time-bound, lasting up to five years.
The public consultation began on August 29 and will run for three months, ending on December 1. During this time, citizens, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders in the cannabis industry can provide their input on the proposals. It's important to note that a public consultation is not the same as a referendum. The full text of the proposed law, titled "Legalise Cannabis: An Opportunity for the Economy, Health, and Equality," is available for review.
Following the consultation period, the legislation bill will be debated in parliament.
In comparison to France, cannabis laws in Switzerland are relatively lenient. Possessing less than 10 grams of cannabis and consuming it in public incurs a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs (approximately 1,070 euros).
The proposed legislation emphasises harm reduction. Advertising for cannabis, seeds, and accessories will be prohibited, and points of sale will require a concession, with their numbers limited.
Under the new law, residents of Switzerland aged 18 and over will be permitted to purchase, possess, and consume cannabis. Additionally, self-cultivation of cannabis will be allowed, limited to three plants per person.
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