In its report published on May 5, 2021, the fact-finding mission on the regulation and uses of cannabis recommends legalizing the plant. At least, that's what the document suggests. That said, this represents both good and bad news, depending on one's perspective. We invite you to discover the main points of this report and access the full PDF file on the CBD.FR.
Let's pause and consider the context
Indeed, it is important that we first consider the context. This will allow those who haven't followed this news story closely to catch up and, therefore, to better understand and assess the recommendations made in the report. With that said, let's begin by asking ourselves the following question: What is this information-gathering mission? Or rather, what is its role? In fact, its main objective is to gather as much information as possible about cannabis and its derivatives in France.
Why? Firstly, to better understand the current situation regarding cannabis in France. Secondly, to grasp the issues behind a possible legalization or the continuation of the prohibition. Furthermore, to understand the needs and demands of French citizens in relation to the various uses of cannabis. To gather all this information, a commission has been established. To this end, it brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds.
They then conducted a series of hearings and roundtables. Several people participated, including scientists, opinion leaders, media figures, and others. Their contributions are very interesting and provide a better understanding of the complexities and challenges of the cannabis industry in France. You can watch the videos.
Following these hearings and roundtables, the commission produced a report on recreational cannabis in France. This report recommends the legalization of the plant. We invite you to explore its main points and then form your own opinion on its content.
The report of the mission on so-called recreational cannabis in France
Indeed, as we mentioned earlier, the report recommends the legalization of cannabis in France. Moreover, the introductory text of the document on the National Assembly's website makes this clear. We are sharing it with you below.
The fact-finding mission on the regulation and impact of the different uses of cannabis, chaired by Robin Reda and whose general rapporteur is Mr. Jean-Baptiste Moreau, adopted on May 5, 2021 the thematic report by Ms. Caroline Janvier devoted to so-called “recreational” cannabis.
Recognizing the failure of the repressive policy pursued for the past 50 years, both in terms of security and public health, and noting the evolution of public opinion, the report advocates for a regulated legalization of cannabis and proposes launching a major national debate on this subject.
After identifying the objectives to be pursued, the report lists the questions that the public debate must answer in order to regain control of trafficking and protect our youth.
We invite you to watch this short video presentation of the mission itself and of this report on so-called recreational cannabis in France.
Now we can focus on the report itself. It offers us three main areas of analysis.
- An observation of the failure of current policies. Indeed, the first element the report focuses on is the result of the repressive policies used for many years. On this subject, the document makes a bitter observation. According to the report, these policies represent a failure to the detriment of public health. Despite the repression, cannabis use figures continue to rise. Therefore, this approach is ineffective.
- A kind of audit of foreign experiences. Indeed, given that the current repressive approach seems ineffective, the report examines what other countries are doing, specifically Canada and the United States. The aim is to identify the best practices in these foreign cannabis policies, then improve upon them, and finally, develop a new French policy.
- The report opens a debate on the model best suited to the French context. Having examined foreign experiences, it is now time to decide on the model best suited to France. The report thus opens this debate in its third part.
References
- https://www2.assemblee-nationale.fr/15/missions-d-information/missions-d-information-communes/reglementation-et-impact-des-differents-usages-du-cannabis/(block)/90600
- http://event.assemblee-nationale.fr/video.10722937_60925b4d0f2be.reglementation-et-impact-des-differents-usages-du-cannabis—presentation-du-rapport-thematique-5-mai-2021
- https://www2.assemblee-nationale.fr/static/15/mission-information/DP_Cannabis_05.05.21.pdf
Editor-in-Chief specializing in CBD
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.
