legislation on cannabis and other substances oscillates between two extremes. Initially, it is rigid, even hostile towards cannabis. Over time, it has tended to become more open and receptive. We can present it along our classic lines: possession, consumption, cultivation, and distribution.
The summary
Possession and consumption of cannabis
First, how is Croatian legislation regarding the possession and/or consumption of cannabis ? It's important to clarify from the outset that the penal code does not differentiate between substances belonging to the category of cannabis. It criminalizes them all, without exception. In the past, possessing or consuming cannabis was a crime.
Initially, the quantity involved had no bearing on the sentence, which was a minimum of one year's imprisonment. Occasionally, the individual was also fined 500 euros. Later, these regulations regarding possession and/or consumption changed. Under the direct orders of the Minister of Justice and the head of the State Police, the offense was reclassified from a major crime to a minor misdemeanor.
From now on, those in possession and/or using cannabis are no longer prosecuted. They simply pay a fine. In February 2020, things moved even further, in a positive direction. Mirela Holy, a Croatian member of parliament, announced on the radio that a bill to legalize cannabis—including its possession and consumption—would be introduced. She stated:
“It (the project) provides for legalization and liberalization, and plans to fully exploit the potential of hemp for economic, recreational and medical purposes.”
Cannabis cultivation
Next, what can we say about cannabis cultivation in Croatia ? The legislation surrounding it follows the same pattern as that concerning possession and/or consumption. Initially, cultivating one or more plants was severely punished. Moreover, the associated penalty was much harsher than the one mentioned above, ranging from one year of imprisonment (or a fine) to three years in prison. Fortunately, with the aforementioned bill, every adult Croatian will be able to cultivate up to nine flowering plants with a THC . This would be unprecedented in Europe!
Sale of cannabis
Finally, what about the sale of cannabis in Croatia ? The evolution of the regulations surrounding it is typical of the previous ones. Previously, selling cannabis resulted in a minimum of three years' imprisonment. With the bill we are discussing, the reality will be quite different. Aware of the economic contribution of cannabis, the member of parliament is determined to change attitudes. Croatia should join several other European countries that are already enjoying the benefits of hemp-derived products. CBD will have free rein to showcase its cosmetic and nutritional properties. Medical cannabis, meanwhile, has been legal since October 15, 2015.
References
- https://www.newsweed.fr/legalisation-cannabis-europe/
- https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_en_Croatie
- https://www.newsweed.fr/croatie-projet-legalisation-cannabis/
- https://www.blog-cannabis.com/2020/02/13/la-croatie-presente-un-projet-de-loi-pour-legaliser-lherbe-recreative/
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Julien, born on July 17, 1978, in the Paris region, is a prominent writer and expert in the field of CBD products. Following his studies, Julien developed a passion for natural remedies, including CBD. In 2022, he joined the CBD.fr team as an expert and regular contributor. Thanks to his scientific expertise and clear writing style, Julien helps demystify the complexities of CBD, while highlighting its benefits and potential applications through his articles and conference presentations.
