Switzerland moves a step closer to legalizing cannabis

The legalization of cannabis in Switzerland is making good headway, Helvetian-style. After Swiss parliamentary committees then the Swiss Federal Commission on issues relating to addiction and the prevention of non-communicable diseases have given the green light to legalization, the National Council Commission is considering lifting the ban on cannabis in Switzerland, according to 20min.ch.

As in France, Cannabis remains the most widely used illegal drug in Switzerland. According to reports, almost 10% of the population use it annually, while around 4% are regular users. Some have already have access to pilot projects, legalization experiments restricted to a certain number of participants and on a given territory.

Putting an end to the black market

One of the main Swiss arguments in favor of legalizing cannabis sales is the elimination of the black market. Former national councillor Heinz Siegenthaler has proposed that state-regulated production and trade could dry up illicit operations. Such regulation would include strict controls on advertising, taxation and cultivation for personal use.

This proposal was supported by leading political figures. Sarah Wyss (SP) stressed that any legalization must be accompanied by «effective and comprehensive» health protection measures, particularly for minors. Similarly, Manuela Weichelt (Greens) argued that Switzerland must abandon moralistic approaches in favor of a more realistic and pragmatic policy.

It states: «The criminalization of drug and cannabis use generates high social, health and economic costs, and undermines prevention and the protection of minors».

Support for legalization is not limited to left-wing parties. Regine Sauter (FDP) criticized the current system, saying: «The current legal system has clearly failed. Cannabis use persists, including among young people, and a thriving black market is creating further damage». For Sauter, a state-regulated cannabis market could be a more effective solution.

However, the SVP remains firmly opposed. Rémy Wyssmann warns of the dangers associated with cannabis consumption, citing problems such as impaired concentration, addiction and professional instability. SVP member Thomas Aeschi predicts strong opposition to any legalization efforts: «The law certainly won't arrive before summer 2026, but I'm convinced the referendum will be launched against it.»

The legalization of cannabis in Switzerland could be subject to a popular referendum. If approved, Switzerland would join the growing list of countries that embrace a regulated cannabis industry.