We'll try to explain everything about marijuana in Spain, including the attitude toward marijuana, which has evolved significantly in recent years, with many Spanish politicians expressing their opinions and taking action regarding this drug.
POLITICIANS AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH MARIJUANA
The relationship between marijuana and politics in Spain has been a topic of controversy for decadesAlthough marijuana remains illegal in Spain, attitudes toward it have changed significantly in recent years, and many politicians have expressed their opinions and taken action regarding the drug.
In Spain, there has been several politicians who have spoken publicly about their cannabis use in the pastOne of the most notable examples is the former Secretary General of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), Pedro Sánchez, who admitted to having smoked marijuana in his youth. Furthermore, Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias has publicly expressed his support for the legalization of marijuana, stating that it is a matter of “individual freedom”. Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera has also spoken about his personal experience with marijuana and has advocated for a more open policy towards soft drugs.
In Spain, marijuana is considered an illegal substance, and its possession, use, and sale are subject to legal penalties. Despite this, cannabis use is quite widespread in Spanish society, especially among young people. According to a survey by the Spanish Observatory on Drugs and Addictions, in 2019, 29.51% of Spanish youth between the ages of 15 and 34 reported having used cannabis in the previous 12 months.
MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION POLICIES IN SPAIN
In recent years, there has been a growing debate about the legalization of marijuana in Spain. In 2019, the political party Más País proposed a Legislative initiative to legalize the consumption, cultivation, and sale of cannabis for recreational and medicinal useThe initiative was unsuccessful, but it reflected the growing political support for marijuana legalization in Spain. Some politicians have argued that legalization could generate significant tax revenue and reduce the negative impact of drug trafficking.
THE LEGAL SITUATION IN SPAIN
Currently, marijuana remains illegal in Spain, but the situation is complex and ambiguous due to widespread tolerance in society. Public marijuana use is common, and in some regions such as Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Andalusia, cannabis clubs have been established where members can grow and consume marijuana in a closed, private setting. Despite this, police and authorities continue to carry out operations against marijuana production and trafficking.
OPINIONS AND ARGUMENTS FOR AND AGAINST LEGALIZATION
The debate over marijuana legalization in Spain has generated diverse opinions and arguments for and against. Proponents of legalization argue that it could reduce crime, generate tax revenue, and improve public health. On the other hand, opponents argue that legalization could normalize soft drug use and increase the risk of problematic use. Furthermore, there are concerns about the possible association between marijuana use and mental health problems.
What do you think?