Cayman Islands hold referendum on cannabis decriminalization

The government of Cayman Islands has announced its intention to organize a referendum on the decriminalization of possession of small quantities of cannabis, following the growing trend in Caribbean countries to reform their policy on this matter.

The Minister of Tourism , Kenneth Bryan, announced this decision during a press conference, emphasizing the government's desire to listen to the public. He stated: «This government is committed to listening to the will of the people, because it's more about changing lives than changing laws.».

The referendum, which will coincide with next year's general elections, will allow voters to decide whether possession of small amounts of cannabis should be treated as a minor offense, comparable to a traffic ticket.

Proposed law amendments

Currently, cannabis possession remains illegal in the Cayman Islands, local legislation imposing severe penalties. A person caught with 12 grams of cannabis can be sentenced to up to one year in prison, even for a first offense.

If voters approve it, possession of small amounts of cannabis will no longer result in a criminal record, a change that could have significant social repercussions.

Although the amount of cannabis that would be considered a minor offense has not yet been determined, Mr. Bryan clarified that the goal is to alleviate the burden on the criminal justice system and to offer individuals an alternative to incarceration for minor drug offenses.

A regional trend towards cannabis reform

The Cayman Islands are not the only ones reconsidering their stance on cannabis. Across the Caribbean, a notable shift toward decriminalization and the legalization of cannabis, particularly for medicinal or sacramental purposes.

Several neighboring countries have already eased their cannabis laws. following a global agreement by Caribbean countries. In Antigua, Rastafarians are authorized to cultivate and consume, just like «non-believers» who can cultivate four cannabis plants each and possess up to 15 grams.

Jamaica, another key player in the region, has decriminalized the possession of small quantities, allowed Rastafarians to make sacramental use of the plant, and developed its medical cannabis industry.

Recently, The United States Virgin Islands have taken a broader step by legalizing the recreational and sacramental use of cannabis, thus recognizing its importance in local traditions.

The Cayman Islands They legalized the medical marijuana in 2017. Since then, medical cannabis has become an accepted treatment option, although access remains strictly regulated.