Spain: Podemos in favor of legalizing cannabis

Pablo Iglesias, leader of Spain's left-wing party Podemos, has declared himself in favor of legalizing cannabis in Spain. He wants Uruguayan-style state regulation to satisfy demand and collect taxes on transactions.

«Smoking a joint isn't healthy, and neither is a glass of rum.»

The leader of the Podemos spoke on the popular TV program El Hormiguero. He praised the merits of the Uruguayan system, while remaining in favor of an American-style private market.

«I've seen what happens in Oregon and what happens in Uruguay, legalization is working well». He continues his speech. «They've reduced the crime associated with the cannabis issue. They've raised a lot of taxes and streamlined something that everyone wants.».

He doesn't hesitate to say that he smoked when he was young: «Smoking a joint isn't healthy, just like pouring yourself a glass of rum». Unfortunately, subtitles are not available on this video. Only Spanish speakers will be able to get to know one of Spain's new left-wing figures.

Spain and Cannabis Social Clubs

The city of Alicante, long considered Europe's cannabis hub, has just authorized Cannabis Social Clubs, like Barcelona. By complying with strict specifications, these associations will now be able to distribute cannabis freely.

To avoid fines ranging from €2,000 to €300,000, CSCs must meet a number of conditions. Firstly, they must sign a notarial deed (contract of trust) with Alicante City Council. If the owner breaches this contract, the Cannabis Club could close down immediately.

They will have to be more than 300 meters from schools, places of worship and sports clubs, and to avoid fierce competition, be more than one kilometer apart.

What's more, these cannabis clubs are prohibited from organizing events with artists, restaurants or bars. «  We have to make sure they only do what they're licensed to do, which is to consume cannabis.

Pablo Iglesias raises the issue of Spanish tolerance. Cannabis Clubs allow consumers to enjoy themselves, but no tax (for the moment) goes into the state coffers.