Finland, known for its strict stance on cannabis consumption, is the scene of a new debate on the possibility of legalizing this substance. Two years after the rejection of a citizens' initiative to decriminalize cannabis, a new proposal has emerged, reigniting discussions on the potential advantages and disadvantages of such a measure.
Growing consumption despite prohibition
Although cannabis is illegal in Finland, around 100,000 people use it every month, with prevalence increasing in recent years. A citizens' initiative, which has collected more than 50,000 signatures, should be submitted to Parliament in the spring. The initiative seeks full legalization of cannabis, encompassing use, possession, personal cultivation, manufacturing and sale, subject to age restrictions.
Luxembourg and Malta have already led the way in legalizing the possession and cultivation of cannabis for personal use in the European Union. Finland's new initiative proposes to establish a regulatory system similar to those governing other intoxicants such as alcohol, with the aim of minimizing harm to individuals and society.
Kim Kannussaari of drug prevention group EHYT expressed reservations about legalization, citing potential cognitive impairment and mental health issues associated with cannabis use. He highlighted concerns about learning abilities, short-term memory and lung damage, calling for a cautious approach.
Coel Thomas, one of the initiative's proponents, sees legalization as a positive step, countering the argument by pointing out the potential economic benefits. Mr Thomas, who is a deputy city councilor in Helsinki, believes the current ban benefits criminal organizations while depriving them of substantial tax revenue and job creation.
Economic considerations and comparisons
Mr. Thomas cited the example of Canada, where the cannabis industry generated C$15 billion in tax revenue and created 150,000 jobs in the first three years after legalization. He disputed the assumption that controlled substances lead to increased use, saying cannabis use is already on the rise despite its illegal status.
Despite growing public discourse, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo's government remains staunchly opposed to the legalization and decriminalization of cannabis. The government's youth wing, however, has expressed support for the decriminalization of all drugs in 2022, highlighting internal divisions within the ruling party.
Although the government opposes the current citizens' initiative, Thomas remains hopeful that it can spark a more nuanced and comprehensive debate on Finnish cannabis policies. He highlighted the need for a sensible conversation, saying: “If there is anything our citizens' initiative can do, it is to create a more sensible discussion on this topic.”
