Switzerland: 2/3 of the population is in favor of legalizing cannabis

In Switzerland, consuming cannabis is not punishable by law, but is subject to a fine. A person caught in breach will be fined 100 Swiss francs, or 92 euros, if they have less than 10g. However, some cantons are less restrictive than others on the possession of cannabis for personal use.

A study was carried out by GFZ Zurich, between July 11 and August 5, 2017 on a panel of 1,200 people aged 18 and over, at the request of the Facheverband Sucht, a German organization dedicated to addiction treatment, care and counseling. The organization is a partner of the Groupement romand d'étude des addictions (GREA).

A majority of Swiss in favor of legalization

The study revealed that 66% of the Swiss population is in favor of the regulated sale of cannabis. GREA is delighted, and told the local newspaper: «Ahead of an imminent debate on cannabis regulation, the figures are a strong call and signal for the acceptance of cannabis regulation both to the political world and to the federal and cantonal public authorities.»

However, those participants in the study who wanted cannabis to be regulated did impose conditions, including a ban on minors. GREA also pointed out that «in the same proportions, a lifting of the ban is conceivable as long as people behind the wheel refrain from consuming».

Swiss Italians more in favour of legalization

In the Canton of Ticino, where Italian is the official Swiss language, respondents were most in favor of legalizing cannabis, with 83% in favor. Similarly, 79% want cannabis to be sold exclusively in pharmacies or dispensaries set up for the purpose. In German-speaking Switzerland, 68% of people want to legalize cannabis while in switzerland 58% of French-speaking respondents would like to legalize it.

Corine Kibora, spokeswoman for Addiction Switzerland, says: «This study is very interesting in that it shows a shift in public opinion. The debate is now less ideological and more pragmatic. The Swiss are in favor of lifting the ban, provided the market is regulated, in particular by protecting young people. If cannabis were to be legalized, the regulations put in place would then have to be stricter than those currently in place for tobacco or alcohol, with a view to public health.»

Mehdi Bautier