Portugal moves towards cannabis legalization

In a significant shift in Portuguese political discourse, there is a growing consensus in favor of legalizing cannabis for adult use in Portugal.

During a debate at the Assembly of the Republic (AR), representatives of various political parties and organizations expressed their support for regulating cannabis rather than maintaining prohibitionist policies.

This evolution follows the recent announcement by the Socialist Party (PS), which currently holds the majority in the Portuguese government, regarding the formation of a new working group to discuss the legalization of the personal use of cannabis.

The conference, entitled «Cannabis exposure during adolescence and health» and organized by the Treatment Activists Group (TAG), seems to indicate that a consensus is emerging in various quarters to move towards regulating the personal use of cannabis.

Under the scientific coordination of Professor Teresa Summavielle, it brought together national and international experts who spoke, for example, on understanding and addressing the risks associated with cannabis use, particularly among teenagers.

Political perspectives on cannabis regulation

António Maló de Abreu, Chairman of the Health Committee and member of the Social Democratic Party, acknowledged the complexity of the cannabis issue. He stressed the importance of protecting young people from the potential harm of cannabis consumption, while acknowledging the evolution of international trends in favor of regulation. However, he also expressed concern that legalization could unintentionally increase cannabis use among minors, which doesn't seem to be the case abroad.

Carlos Alves, vice-president of Infarmed, the Portuguese authority for medicines and health products, stressed the need for Portugal to engage in discussions on the non-medical use of cannabis, as this is a global issue. He stressed the importance of addressing the risks associated with cannabis use, particularly psychological illnesses, while acknowledging the diversity of approaches adopted by different countries.

João Goulão, from SICAD (Service d'intervention en matière de conduites addictives et de dépendances), took a softer line on regulating cannabis use among adults. He insisted on the need to minimize harmful effects of cannabis, Mr. Goulão stressed that, while economic interests may play a role, the focus must first and foremost be on health and evidence-based decision-making. Mr. Goulão insisted that, while economic interests may play a role, the focus must first and foremost be on health and evidence-based decision-making.

Towards responsible cannabis regulation

Luís Mendão, Director of GAT's Citizen Initiative, moderated the discussions and underlined the organization's commitment to responsible regulation based on knowledge and health protection. He recalled the support of three university rectors for cannabis regulation in a letter to Parliament.

Maria de Lurdes Rodrigues, Rector of ISCTE and former Minister of Education, expressed her support for cannabis regulation, stressing the importance of basing policies on empirical facts rather than personal opinions. She also drew parallels with alcohol, highlighting the negative effects of alcohol consumption on health and behavior.

Portugal is witnessing a significant shift in its approach to cannabis regulation, with growing support for the legalization of adult use. Discussions within the Assembly of the Republic indicate a willingness to explore evidence-based approaches to cannabis policy that prioritize health and safety, particularly among young people.

Although economic considerations are on the agenda, the main objective remains the reduction of potential risks associated with cannabis use, reflecting the shift in international trends towards regulation rather than prohibitionism.