Difference between revisions of "Legality of cannabis by country"

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! style="width:120px;"| '''Country/Territory''' !! '''Possession''' !! '''Sale''' !! '''Transport''' !! '''Cultivation''' !! '''Notes'''
 
! style="width:120px;"| '''Country/Territory''' !! '''Possession''' !! '''Sale''' !! '''Transport''' !! '''Cultivation''' !! '''Notes'''
 
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| Albania || no ||no|| no || no ||<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.everyonedoesit.co.uk/cannabis_information/cannabis_laws/cannabis_laws_cannabis_laws_abroad.cfm |title = Cannabis laws: Learn about the legal status of cannabis in countries around the world |publisher = Everyone does it |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref> Albania is one of Europe's greatest producers of cannabis.<ref name="setimes-albania">{{citation |url = http://www.setimes.com/cocoon/setimes/xhtml/en_GB/features/setimes/features/2012/08/07/feature-03 |title = Growing marijuana is an increasing regional problem |publisher = SETimes.com |date = 7 August 2012 |accessdate = 2013-04-18 }}</ref><ref name="balkaninsight-albania-1">{{citation |url = http://www.balkaninsight.com/en/article/report-cannabis-growth-mounts-in-albania |title = Report Says Albania Cannabis Growth Mounting |date = 7 March 2013 |accessdate = 2013-04-18 |publisher = balkaninsight.com }}</ref><ref name="balkaninsight-albania-2">{{citation |url = http://www.balkaninsight.com/en/article/albania-police-bust-major-cannabis-shipments |title = Albanian Police Seize Cannabis Shipment |publisher = balkaninsight.com }}</ref>
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| Albania || Illegal ||Illegal||Illegal||Illegal|| Albania is one of Europe's greatest producers of cannabis.  
 
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| Algeria || no || no || no || no || Possession is illegal<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.havocscope.com/cannabis-resin-seizures-in-algeria/|title=Cannabis Resin Seizures in Algeria|work=Havocscope|accessdate=14 January 2015}}</ref>
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| Algeria || Illegal|| Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession is illegal
 
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| Argentina || partial || no || no || no || Legal for personal use in small amounts and for consumption in private locations. Public consumption is generally accepted among young adults. Consumption for [[Medical cannabis|medical purposes]] is accepted but not legislated (only in private locations). Cultivating, selling and transporting large amounts is illegal and punishable by present laws.<ref>{{citation |url = http://articles.nydailynews.com/2009-08-26/news/29435978_1_drug-trafficking-drug-gangs-possession-of-small-amounts |title = Argentina court ruling decriminalizes marijuana and makes personal use a constitutional right |publisher = nydailynews.com |accessdate = 2010-03-04 |location = New York |work = Daily News |date = 26 August 2009 }}</ref>
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| Argentina || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Legal for personal use in small amounts and for consumption in private locations. Public consumption is generally accepted among young adults. Consumption for Medical cannabis|medical purposes is accepted but not legislated (only in private locations). Cultivating, selling and transporting large amounts is illegal and punishable by present laws.
 
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|Flagu|Australia || partial (decriminalized in some states) || no || no || partial|One or two plants may be privately grown for personal use in the [[Australian Capital Territory]] and [[South Australia]]. Personal grows of up to two plants are decriminalized in the [[Northern Territory]]. || main|Cannabis in Australia Decriminalized for personal use in small amounts in the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia and the Northern Territory. It is a criminal offence in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria (Australia)|Victoria and Tasmania. In SA a person can legally grow 1 non-hydroponic plant, and in the ACT 2 non-hydroponic plants may be grown on their own property for personal use, and in the N.T two non-hydroponic plants can be fined $200 with 28 days to pay rather than face criminal charge.  Enforcement varies from state to state,<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/05/22/1053585645363.html |location = Melbourne |work = The Age |title = Australia's cannabis laws |date = 23 May 2003 }}</ref> though a criminal conviction for possession of a small amount is unlikely and diversion programs in these states aim to divert offenders into education, assessment and treatment programs.<ref name="NCPIC-CAL">{{citation |url = http://ncpic.org.au/ncpic/publications/factsheets/article/cannabis-and-the-law/ |title = NCPIC Cannabis and the Law Factsheet |publisher = ncpic.org.au }}</ref> With the rapid expansion in hydroponically grown cannabis cultivation, the Australian Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act (1985) was amended in 2006, reducing the amount of cannabis grown indoors under hydroponic conditions that qualifies as a 'commercial quantity' or as a 'large quantity'<ref name="NCPIC-CAL" />
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|Australia || Iegal (decriminalized in some states) || Illegal || One or two plants may be privately grown for personal use in the Australian Capital Territory and South Australia. Personal grows of up to two plants are decriminalized in the Northern Territory. || main|Cannabis in Australia Decriminalized for personal use in small amounts in the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia and the Northern Territory. It is a criminal offence in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria (Australia)|Victoria and Tasmania. In SA a person can legally grow 1 non-hydroponic plant, and in the ACT 2 non-hydroponic plants may be grown on their own property for personal use, and in the N.T two non-hydroponic plants can be fined $200 with 28 days to pay rather than face criminal charge.  Enforcement varies from state to state, With the rapid expansion in hydroponically grown cannabis cultivation, the Australian Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act (1985) was amended in 2006, reducing the amount of cannabis grown indoors under hydroponic conditions that qualifies as a 'commercial quantity' or as a 'large quantity'||
 
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|Austria || partial || no || no || no || Possession (which includes the act of smoking) is punishable by prison time of up to 1 year (option of alternative therapy and subsequent waiving of sentence) If it was possessed for personal use the penalty is only up to half a year<ref>{{citation |url = http://ris.bka.gv.at/Dokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&Dokumentnummer=NOR40093183 |title = Suchtmittelgesetz §27 |publisher = Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundeskanzleramts |accessdate = 2009-05-17 }}</ref>
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|Austria || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession (which includes the act of smoking) is punishable by prison time of up to 1 year (option of alternative therapy and subsequent waiving of sentence) If it was possessed for personal use the penalty is only up to half a year
 
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| Belgium || no || no || no| || partial|| Since 2003 adults over the age of 18, in Belgium, were allowed to possess up to 3 grams. But since the 10th of October it has been made illegal again.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.polfed-fedpol.be/|title=Federale politie - Police fdrale|author=Police fdrale - CGPR Webteam|publisher=|accessdate=14 January 2015}}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_law.shtml#belgium |title = Cannabis legal status vault – Belgium |publisher = Erowid.org |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
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| Belgium || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal| || Illegal (decriminalized for 1 bedrocan female plant) || Since 2003 adults over the age of 18, in Belgium, were allowed to possess up to 3 grams. But since the 10th of October it has been made illegal again.
 
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| Belize || partial || no || no| || no || Cannabis use in Belize is common and largely tolerated; however, possession can result in fines or imprisonment.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hubbard|first=Kirsten|title=Drug Laws and Penalties in Central America|url=http://gocentralamerica.about.com/od/culturehistory/p/Central-America-Drug-Laws-And-Penalties.htm|publisher=About.com|accessdate=2 January 2014}}</ref> In 2012, the Government of Belize announced that it was considering decriminalizing possession of 10 grams or less.<ref>{{cite web|title=Decriminalization of Marijuana|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130309105734/http://www.belize.gov.bz/public/Data/271616513971.pdf|publisher=Government of Belize|accessdate=5 January 2014}}</ref>
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| Belize || Illegal, but mostly tolerated || Illegal || Illegal| || Illegal || Cannabis use in Belize is common and largely tolerated; however, possession can result in fines or imprisonment.
 
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| Bolivia}} || no || no || no || no || Possession is illegal.<ref name="erowid-SA">{{citation |url = http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_law2.shtml |title = Cannabis South American laws |publisher = Erowid.org |date = March 1995 }}</ref>
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| Bolivia || Illegal|| Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession is illegal.
 
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| Botswana || no || no || no||| no || Cannabis (or Dagga) is illegal, but this is often unenforced.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.issafrica.org/cdct/mainpages/pdf/Organised%20Crime/Legislation/Botswana/Botswana%20Drugs%20and%20Related%20Substances%20Act%2018%20of%201992%20.pdf |title = Drugs and related substances act no. 18 of 1992 |publisher = Government of Botswana |date =  |accessdate = 2013-10-03 }}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://www.sundaystandard.info/print_article.php?NewsID=13507 |title = Is dagga the healing of a nation? |publisher = Sunday Standard |date =  |accessdate = 2013-10-03 }}</ref>
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| Botswana || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal  ||| Illegal || Cannabis (or Dagga) is illegal, but this is often unenforced.
 
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| Brazil}} || partial || no || no || no || The possession of illegal drugs in Brazil, for personal consumption, entails a warning, [[community service]] and education on the effects of drug use. The same applies for the planting and/or preparation of small amounts of any illegal drug.
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| Brazil || Illegal (unpunished) || Illegal ||Illegal|| Illegal || The possession of illegal drugs in Brazil, for personal consumption, entails a warning, community service and education on the effects of drug use. The same applies for the planting and/or preparation of small amounts of any illegal drug.
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Selling and transportation of any illegal drugs, as well as the possession or cultivation of larger amounts is characterized as drug trafficking, a criminal act punished with 5 to 15 years in prison and a significant fine.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_Ato2004-2006/2006/Lei/L11343.htm |title = Law 11.343 |publisher = planalto.gov.br }}</ref>
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Selling and transportation of any illegal drugs, as well as the possession or cultivation of larger amounts is characterized as drug trafficking, a criminal act punished with 5 to 15 years in prison and a significant fine.
 
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|Bosnia and Herzegovina || no| || no || no || no || All cannabis is illegal
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|Bosnia and Herzegovina || Illegal| || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || All cannabis is illegal
 
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| Belarus}} || no || no || no || no ||  
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| Belarus || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||  
 
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| Bulgari || no || no || no| || no || Cannabis is class A (High-risk) drug, together with Heroin, [[Cocaine]], [[Amphetamines]] and [[MDMA]] (ecstasy). Until 2004 a loosely defined "personal dose" existed. Since 2006, after the last amendment of the Penal Code, the penalty for possession is 1 to 6 years in prison and a fine between 1,000 and 5,000 euros. For possession with an aim of distribution (drug-dealing) the sentence can range from 2 to 8 years for small amounts, through 3 to 12 years for large amounts, up to 5 to 15 years when executed by an organized criminal group. In these cases the maximum fine to be determined together with the prison time is 50,000 euros. Growing is punishable by 2 to 5 years and a fine up to 5,000 euros. The organizer of a growers group can receive from 10 to 20 years and has to pay a fine up to 100,000 euros and a participant in such a group – 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of 2,500 to 5,000 euros.<ref>{{citation |author = Ясен Люцканов |url = http://www.segabg.com/online/article.asp?issueid=2403&sectionid=5&id=0002301 |title = Еднократна доза закони |publisher = Segabg.com |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref> [http://lex.bg/bg/laws/ldoc/1589654529 Bulgarian Penal Code (translation requested)]
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| Bulgari || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal| || Illegal || Cannabis is class A (High-risk) drug, together with Heroin, Cocaine, [[Amphetamines and MDMA (ecstasy). Until 2004 a loosely defined "personal dose" existed. Since 2006, after the last amendment of the Penal Code, the penalty for possession is 1 to 6 years in prison and a fine between 1,000 and 5,000 euros. For possession with an aim of distribution (drug-dealing) the sentence can range from 2 to 8 years for small amounts, through 3 to 12 years for large amounts, up to 5 to 15 years when executed by an organized criminal group. In these cases the maximum fine to be determined together with the prison time is 50,000 euros. Growing is punishable by 2 to 5 years and a fine up to 5,000 euros. The organizer of a growers group can receive from 10 to 20 years and has to pay a fine up to 100,000 euros and a participant in such a group – 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of 2,500 to 5,000 euros.
 
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| Cambodia ||partial||| partial || partial || partial || While technically illegal, the use of cannabis is widespread among the Khmer people and foreigners visiting the country. Marijuana can easily be purchased and smoked in public areas without the threat of arrest. Many "Happy" restaurants located in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville publicly offer food cooked with marijuana, or as a side garnish.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.cannabisculture.com/articles/1403.html |title = Cannabis Cambodia: smoker's paradise |publisher = Cannabisculture.com |date = 1 November 1998 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://www.gosihanoukville.com/dining/happy/index.html |title = Happy Restaurants (sic) in Sihanoukville |publisher = GoSihanoukville.com |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
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| Cambodia || Illegal (decriminalized)  ||| Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal (decriminalized) || While technically illegal, the use of cannabis is widespread among the Khmer people and foreigners visiting the country. Marijuana can easily be purchased and smoked in public areas without the threat of arrest. Many "Happy" restaurants located in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville publicly offer food cooked with marijuana, or as a side garnish.
 
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| Canada || partial || {{no|Illegal}} || no || no| || Legal with government issued licence for medical or industrial purposes. See Legislation: "Controlled Drugs and Substances Act"<ref>{{citation |url = http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-38.8/page-2.html |title = Controlled Drugs and Substances Act |accessdate = 2011-10-01 }}</ref><br /><br />{{Main|Legal history of cannabis in Canada}}
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| Canada || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal  || Illegal | || Legal with government issued licence for medical or industrial purposes.  
 
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| Chile || no || no || no} || partial|Illegal (Chile plants cannabis for medicinal use)<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-29693386 |publisher = bbc.com }}</ref>}} || Personal consumption, possession and cultivation (of any drug) is decriminalized when in private locations. Chilean authorities permits the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes only. In 2014, the Chilean authorities have given a local woman permission to import drugs made from cannabis.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.thecannabist.co/2014/10/29/chile-medical-marijuana-seeds-planted-pilot-program/22167/ |title = Chile plants seeds for country’s new medical marijuana program |publisher = thecannabist.co }}</ref>
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| Chile || Illegal  || Illegal  || Illegal  || Illegal (Chile plants cannabis for medicinal use)|| Personal consumption, possession and cultivation (of any drug) is decriminalized when in private locations. Chilean authorities permits the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes only. In 2014, the Chilean authorities have given a local woman permission to import drugs made from cannabis.
 
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| People's Republic of China || no || no| || no || no || Cannabis is cultivated for its seeds and for fiber, and has a long medicinal history.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.hempfood.com/iha/iha03207.html |title = Taxonomic studies of Cannabis in China |publisher = Hempfood.com |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20120809052050/http://www.hempfood.com/iha/iha03207.html |archivedate = 9 August 2012 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
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| People's Republic of China || Illegal  || Illegal | || Illegal  ||Illegal  || Cannabis is cultivated for its seeds and for fiber, and has a long medicinal history.
 
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| Colombia || partial || no || no| || partial| (Legal up to 20 plants for personal consumption) || Since 1994, cannabis has been decriminalized for possession of small amounts up to 22&nbsp;grams for personal consumption, however sale remains illegal.<ref>{{citation |url = http://noticiascaracol.com/nacion/articulo-268851-la-dosis-minima-no-podra-ser-penalizada-dice-corte-constitucional |title = La dosis mínima no podrá ser penalizada, dice Corte Constitucional |publisher = noticiascaracol.com |date = 28 June 2012 }}</ref> It is legal to possess up to 20 plants for personal consumption <ref>{{citation |url = http://www.alcaldiabogota.gov.co/sisjur/normas/Norma1.jsp?i=2774 |title =LEY 30 DE 1986 |publisher = alcaldiabogota.gov.co |date = 31 January 1986 }}</ref>
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| Colombia || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal  || Illegal | || Illegal (Legal up to 20 plants for personal consumption) || Since 1994, cannabis has been decriminalized for possession of small amounts up to 22&nbsp;grams for personal consumption, however sale remains illegal.
 
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| {{Flagu|Comoros}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Cannabis was legal during the Comorian historical period between January 1975 and May 1978, when president [[Ali Soilih]] legalized cannabis consumption among other measures<ref>[http://www.niyel.net/docs/Dossier_1_fr.pdf Dossiers sur les 30 Chefs d'Etat ou de Gouvernements tués]{{fr}}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://www.jstor.org/pss/2935448 |title = Transition, 73 – The Mercenary Position |publisher = jstor.org }}</ref>
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| Comoros || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Cannabis was legal during the Comorian historical period between January 1975 and May 1978, when president Ali Soilih legalized cannabis consumption among other measures
 
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| {{Flagu|Costa Rica}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)<ref name="nacion1">{{citation |url = http://www.nacion.com/2010-08-24/ElPais/NotasSecundarias/ElPais2495186.aspx |title = Chinchilla ve complicado legalizar la marihuana – EL PAÍS – La Nación |publisher = Nacion.com |date = 24 August 2010 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || Cannabis is illegal but there is a high tolerance of smoking marijuana throughout the country, a decriminalization system is implemented de facto since police officers do not detain people carrying enough for only personal consumption, yet no amount has been defined as a minimum for possession. Usage of Cannabis in Costa Rica is very high.<ref name="nacion1"/>
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| Costa Rica || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal (decriminalized) || Cannabis is illegal but there is a high tolerance of smoking marijuana throughout the country, a decriminalization system is implemented de facto since police officers do not detain people carrying enough for only personal consumption, yet no amount has been defined as a minimum for possession. Usage of Cannabis in Costa Rica is very high.
 
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| {{Flagu|Croatia}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}}<ref name="zakon.hr" /> || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || From 2013 there is distinction in the Croatian penal code between various illegal substances, they are now separated on heavy drugs and light drugs like Marijuana. According to the law, growing or selling cannabis is considered a felony punishable by a [[mandatory prison sentence]] (three years minimum) and from 2013 the possession of small amount of marijuana and other light drugs is a misdemeanor which leads to a fine of 5000–20000[[Croatian kuna|kn]] ($800–3500) depending on the case in question.<ref name="zakon.hr">{{cite web |url=http://www.zakon.hr/z/293/Zakon-o-suzbijanju-zlouporabe-droga Violation Law |title=Zakon o suzbijanju zlouporabe droga |language=Croatian |accessdate=July 2013}}</ref> In all cases the cannabis must be confiscated.<ref name="zakon.hr"/>
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| Croatia || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || From 2013 there is distinction in the Croatian penal code between various illegal substances, they are now separated on heavy drugs and light drugs like Marijuana. According to the law, growing or selling cannabis is considered a felony punishable by a mandatory prison sentence (three years minimum) and from 2013 the possession of small amount of marijuana and other light drugs is a misdemeanor which leads to a fine of 5000–20000Croatian kuna |kn ($800–3500) depending on the case in question.
 
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| {{Flagu|Cuba}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||<ref>{{citation |url = http://ruleoflawandcuba.fsu.edu/law-penal-code.cfm |title = Cuban Penal Code |publisher = Florida State University |date =  |accessdate = 2012-11-05 }}</ref>
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| Cuba || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||
 
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| {{Flagu|Cyprus}} || {{partial|Illegal (small amount Legal for medical uses)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{partial|Illegal (Legal for some farms to grow Hemp)}} || Class B substance – life imprisonment is possible for use and maximum 8 years for possession (maximum 2 yrs for first offence for under 25 yr old). In practice, warning may be given to a minor unconscious first offender.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.emcdda.europa.eu/legal-topic-overviews/cannabis-possession-for-personal-use |title = Legal topic overviews: possession of cannabis for personal use |work = EMCCDA |accessdate = 3 December 2012 }}</ref>
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| Cyprus || Illegal (small amount Legal for medical uses) || no || no || Illegal (Legal for some farms to grow Hemp) || Class B substance – life imprisonment is possible for use and maximum 8 years for possession (maximum 2 yrs for first offence for under 25 yr old). In practice, warning may be given to a minor unconscious first offender.||
 
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| {{Flagu|Czech Republic}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{partial|Illegal (purchase legal; sale of medical cannabis legal, otherwise sale illegal)}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{main|Drug policy of the Czech Republic}}Possession of up to fifteen grams for personal use or cultivation of up to five plants is merely a misdemeanor. Popular destination for smokers.<ref>{{citation |author =  |url = http://ireadculture.com/2011/07/news/the-next-amsterdam/ |title = The Next Amsterdam – Culture Magazine |publisher = Ireadculture.com |date =  |accessdate = 2011-12-14 }}</ref><ref>{{citation |last = Carney |first = Sean |url = http://blogs.wsj.com/new-europe/2009/12/08/czech-govt-allows-5-cannabis-plants-for-personal-use-from-2010/ |title = Wall Street Journal. Czech Govt Allows 5 Cannabis Plants For Personal Use From 2010. 8th December 2009 |publisher = Blogs.wsj.com |date = 8 December 2009 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref> Medical use of cannabis on prescription has been legal and regulated since 1 April 2013.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://the420times.com/2013/04/czech-republic-pharmacies-began-selling-medical-cannabis/ |title = Czech Republic Pharmacies Began Selling Medical Cannabis |publisher = The420times.com |date =  |accessdate = 2013-06-23 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/15/czech-republic-medical-marijuana_n_2693657.html |title = Czech Republic Legalizes Medical Marijuana Use |publisher = Huffingtonpost.com |date =  15 February 2013|accessdate = 2013-06-23 }}</ref>
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| Czech Republic || Illegal(decriminalized) || Illegal (purchase legal; sale of medical cannabis legal, otherwise sale illegal) || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal(decriminalized) || Drug policy of the Czech Republic }}Possession of up to fifteen grams for personal use or cultivation of up to five plants is merely a misdemeanor. Popular destination for smokers. Medical use of cannabis on prescription has been legal and regulated since 1 April 2013.
 
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| {{Flagu|Denmark}} || {{partial|Illegal, but mostly tolerated}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || As with all drugs, cannabis-related offences are punishable by a fine or imprisonment for up to 2 years<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.1stmarijuanagrowerspage.com/denmark-marijuana-cannabis-laws.html |title = Denmark marijuana laws – cannabis growing and marijuana seeds |publisher = 1stmarijuanagrowerspage.com |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref> [[Freetown Christiania]], a self-declared autonomous region, is known for its cannabis trade.
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| Denmark || Illegal, but mostly tolerated ||Illegal|| Illegal || Illegal || As with all drugs, cannabis-related offences are punishable by a fine or imprisonment for up to 2 years Freetown Christiania, a self-declared autonomous region, is known for its cannabis trade.
 
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| {{Flagu|Dominica}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Class B drug to cultivate, sell or possess<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.dominica.gov.dm/laws/chapters/chap40-07.pdf |title = Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act, Chapter 40:07 |format = PDF |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
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| Dominica ||Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Class B drug to cultivate, sell or possess||
 
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| {{Flagu|Ecuador}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Possession is not illegal, defined by Law 108.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.druglawreform.info/en/country-information/ecuador |title = Ecuador |publisher = Drug Law Reform in Latin America |accessdate = 2011-01-31 }}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://www.druglawreform.info/images/stories/documents/ley108ec.pdf |title = Law 108 – Ecuador |accessdate = 2011-01-31 }}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://photos.state.gov/libraries/quito/153436/ACS/imprisioned-pamphlet.pdf |title = US Embassy, Ecuador – Information for American Citizens |accessdate = 2011-01-31 }}</ref> Possession of under 10 grams is considered personal use and it is legal and not punished.<ref>[http://www.telegrafo.com.ec/english-bulletin/item/marijuana-decriminalized-but-not-yet-legal.html ]{{dead link|date=December 2013}}</ref>
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| Ecuador || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession is not illegal, defined by Law 108.||
 
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| {{Flagu|Egypt}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Technically illegal. However, use is widespread and part of every day culture. Convictions are very rare for personal use .<ref>{{citation |url = http://blogs.abcnews.com/theworldnewser/2010/05/egypts-pot-problem-a-marijuana-shortage.html |title = Egypt's Pot Problem? A Marijuana Shortage |publisher = [[ABC News]] |author = Lama Hasan |date = 5 May 2010 |accessdate = 2011-01-31 }}</ref> Formerly a plant of high status, with several documented medicinal uses in ancient times, cannabis was made illegal in 1925 with the League of Nations’ Geneva International Convention on Narcotic Control, and has been aggressively targeted at various points since then.<ref>{{citation |url = http://sensiseeds.com/en/blog/cannabis-egypt |title = Cannabis in Egypt |publisher = The Sensi Seed Bank |author = Seshata |accessdate = 2014-01-20 }}</ref>
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| Egypt || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Technically illegal. However, use is widespread and part of every day culture. Convictions are very rare for personal use . Formerly a plant of high status, with several documented medicinal uses in ancient times, cannabis was made illegal in 1925 with the League of Nations’ Geneva International Convention on Narcotic Control, and has been aggressively targeted at various points since then.
 
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|-
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| {{Flagu|Estonia}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Up to 7.5&nbsp;grams is considered an amount for personal use, and is punished with a fine. Large amounts and distribution are criminal offences, and are punishable with a fine or by up to 5 years in prison.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.eupedia.com/europe/maps_of_europe.shtml#cannabis |title = Europe Guide : Maps of Europe by language, religion, population density, hair & eye color, etc |publisher = Eupedia.com |date = 19 April 1994 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Estonia}} || Illegal(decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Up to 7.5&nbsp;grams is considered an amount for personal use, and is punished with a fine. Large amounts and distribution are criminal offences, and are punishable with a fine or by up to 5 years in prison.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Ethiopia}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Despite being the spiritual homeland of the [[Rastafari movement]], possession of cannabis can result in up to 6 months imprisonment.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.iol.co.za/news/world/us-warns-american-rastas-about-ethiopian-laws-1.232633 |title = US warns American Rastas about Ethiopian laws |publisher = iol.co.za |date = 29 January 2005 |accessdate = 2011-10-08 }}</ref>
+
| Ethiopia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Despite being the spiritual homeland of the Rastafari movement, possession of cannabis can result in up to 6 months imprisonment.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Finland}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Extremely limited group of medicinal users (12 people as of 31 January 2010) are permitted to purchase Sativex mouth spray from one special pharmacy in the city of Turku.<ref>{{citation |url = http://yle.fi/alueet/turku/2010/03/laakekannabiksen_kaytto_puhuttaa_1571689.html |title = Lääkekannabiksen käyttö puhuttaa &#124; Turku |publisher = yle.fi |date = 30 March 2010 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Finland || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Extremely limited group of medicinal users (12 people as of 31 January 2010) are permitted to purchase Sativex mouth spray from one special pharmacy in the city of Turku.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|France}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Cultivating, selling, owning or consuming cannabis is prohibited.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichCodeArticle.do;jsessionid=084CA313C431F0D0BC93F76E7FAEC41A.tpdjo13v_3?cidTexte=LEGITEXT000006072665&idArticle=LEGIARTI000006801195&dateTexte=20081018&categorieLien=cid |title = Code de la santé publique |language = French |publisher = Legifrance.gouv.fr |date = 29 July 2004 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref> However, legislation was enacted in June 2013 permitting the sale of medications containing cannabis derivatives.<ref>{{cite news|title=Legalising or decriminalizing cannabis in France: not that easy|url=http://www.euronews.com/2013/11/06/france-legalising-or-decriminalizing-cannabis-not-that-easy|accessdate=15 December 2013|newspaper=Euronews|date=6 November 2013|author=Marie Jamet}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=French law on pot-based medicine takes effect|url=http://www.thelocal.fr/20130610/legalized-cannabis-tea-could-be-on-drug-menu-for-french-patients-in-pharmacies|accessdate=15 December 2013|newspaper=The Local|date=10 June 2013|author=Ann Törnkvist}}</ref>
+
| France || Illegal ||Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Cultivating, selling, owning or consuming cannabis is prohibited. However, legislation was enacted in June 2013 permitting the sale of medications containing cannabis derivatives.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Germany}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || The possession is illegal, while consumption itself is legal on the basis of it being considered [[Self-harm#Drugs and alcohol|self-harm]], which is not considered a crime. The possession of small amounts is prosecuted, but charges are virtually always dropped. The definition of this "small amount" varies depending on the [[Federal state (Germany)|federal state]], the state of [[Berlin]] being the most liberal, allowing 15 grams for personal use in most cases, while most states do not prosecute up to 6 grams.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hanfverband.de/index.php/themen/recht-a-urteile/1502-bundesland-vergleich-der-richtlinien-zur-anwendung-des-s-31a-btmg |title=Bundesland-Vergleich der Richtlinien zur Anwendung des § 31a BtMG |publisher=Hanfverband.de |date=2011-06-05 |accessdate=2013-12-03}}</ref>
+
| Germany || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || The possession is illegal, while consumption itself is legal on the basis of it being considered Self-harm#Drugs and alcohol|self-harm, which is not considered a crime. The possession of small amounts is prosecuted, but charges are virtually always dropped. The definition of this "small amount" varies depending on the Federal state (Germany)|federal state, the state of Berlin being the most liberal, allowing 15 grams for personal use in most cases, while most states do not prosecute up to 6 grams.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Greece}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Possession or use of even small amounts is illegal in Greece. Individuals are arrested, although rarely convicted by court. Possession of large quantities may lead to several years in prison.<ref>{{citation |url = http://mastouria.informe.com/e-u-i-a-i-i-dt59.html |title = Ελληνική νομοθεσία για κάνναβη (Greek Law on cannabis) |language = Greek |publisher = mastouria.informe.com |date = 27 May 2007 |accessdate = 2011-08-10 }}</ref>
+
| Greece || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession or use of even small amounts is illegal in Greece. Individuals are arrested, although rarely convicted by court. Possession of large quantities may lead to several years in prison.
−
The Government was said to be preparing a bill that would decriminalize the use of drugs in August 2011, but finally the legislation was not changed at all.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_wsite1_1_03/08/2011_401005 |title = Bill to decriminalize use of drugs |publisher = ekathimerini.com |date = 3 August 2011 |accessdate = 2011-08-10 }}</ref>
+
The Government was said to be preparing a bill that would decriminalize the use of drugs in August 2011, but finally the legislation was not changed at all.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''{{Flagu|Greenland}}'' || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||
+
| Greenland|| Illegal || Illegal|| Illegal| ||Illegal||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Honduras}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || The possession, sale, transportation and cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Honduras.<ref>[http://www.poderjudicial.gob.hn/juris/Leyes/Ley%20sobre%20uso%20Indebido%20y%20Trafico%20Ilicito%20de%20Drogas%20y%20Sustancias%20Psicotropicas.pdf LEY SOBRE USO INDEBIDO Y TRAFICO ILICITO DE DROGAS Y SUSTANCIAS PSICOTROPICAS]</ref>
+
| Hondura || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || The possession, sale, transportation and cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Honduras.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''{{Flagu|Hong Kong}}'' || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || The possession, sale, transportation, cultivation of cannabis is illegal under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance<ref name="Police.gov.hk">{{citation |url = http://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/04_crime_matters/drug/law_pen.html |title = Information on the official web site of the Hong Kong Police Force |publisher = Police.gov.hk |date =  |accessdate = 2011-12-14 }}</ref> (Chapter 134 of the [[Law of Hong Kong]]).
+
| Hong Kong ||Illegal ||Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || The possession, sale, transportation, cultivation of cannabis is illegal under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance (Chapter 134 of the Law of Hong Kong).
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Hungary}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||{{no|Illegal}} || There is no distinction in Hungarian law between illicit drugs according to dangers. Heroin use has the same legal consequences as cannabis use. Hungarian law prohibits the distribution, and any use (including medical use). However the Penal code distinguishes the punishment between sale and personal use. 283. § (1) paragraph (a) states that "One cannot be punished for drug misuse; if a small, personal amount is produced, acquired, or in possession..." and continues to state that "... provided that before final verdict is determined a verification is provided that continuous 6-month therapy has taken place" The law determines that a "personal quantity" is defined as 1&nbsp;gram of active substance (i.e. THC), therefore this equates to 12–100&nbsp;grams of marijuana if calculated that marijuana contains 1–8% THC per unit mass. Possession of larger amounts can lead to a 5–10-year prison sentence.<ref>{{citation |author = Minstrel |url = http://www.daath.hu/showText.php?id=62#chapter3 |title = Társaság a Szabadságjogokért: Drogjog 1999VOTED VOTE D2ID : 62 |publisher = Daath.hu |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Hungary || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||Illegal || There is no distinction in Hungarian law between illicit drugs according to dangers. Heroin use has the same legal consequences as cannabis use. Hungarian law prohibits the distribution, and any use (including medical use). However the Penal code distinguishes the punishment between sale and personal use. 283. § (1) paragraph (a) states that "One cannot be punished for drug misuse; if a small, personal amount is produced, acquired, or in possession..." and continues to state that "... provided that before final verdict is determined a verification is provided that continuous 6-month therapy has taken place" The law determines that a "personal quantity" is defined as 1&nbsp;gram of active substance (i.e. THC), therefore this equates to 12–100&nbsp;grams of marijuana if calculated that marijuana contains 1–8% THC per unit mass. Possession of larger amounts can lead to a 5–10-year prison sentence.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Iceland}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Consumption is illegal even in small amounts. Possession, sale, transportation and cultivation could result in jail time. Possession is not strictly enforced. Heavy fines are given.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.althingi.is/dba-bin/unds.pl?txti=/wwwtext/html/lagasofn/136a/1974065.html&leito=kannabis#word1 |title = Lög um ávana- og fíkniefni 1974 nr. 65 21. maí |publisher = www.althingi.is |accessdate = 2009-02-09 }}</ref>
+
| celand || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Consumption is illegal even in small amounts. Possession, sale, transportation and cultivation could result in jail time. Possession is not strictly enforced. Heavy fines are given.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Indonesia}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Minimum sentence of four years in prison (additional fines may apply) if caught in possession.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.bnn.go.id/portal/_uploads/perundangan/2009/10/27/uu-nomor-35-tahun-2009-tentang-narkotika-ok.pdf |title = Undang-Undang Republik Indonesia No. 35 Tahun 2009 tentang Narkotika |work = BNN RI |accessdate = 3 May 2013 }}</ref> However, if the user voluntarily reports himself/herself to the police, or is reported by his/her family, the charges will be dropped in accordance to 2009 Narcotics Act, article 24 paragraph 2, 3, 4.  
+
| Indonesia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Minimum sentence of four years in prison (additional fines may apply) if caught in possession. However, if the user voluntarily reports himself/herself to the police, or is reported by his/her family, the charges will be dropped in accordance to 2009 Narcotics Act, article 24 paragraph 2, 3, 4.  
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|India}} || {{No|Illegal}} || {{No|Illegal (with government regulated license)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Used during observance of certain [[Hindu]] rituals. Government-owned shops in holy cities like [[Varanasi]] sell cannabis in the form of [[bhang]]. Despite the high prevalent usage, this law is Illegal but rarely enforced and treated as a low priority across India. Tourist may often be searched by police officers, but usually in the goal of being bribed and not punished. Further, large tracts of cannabis grow unchecked in the wild in many parts of northern and southern India in many states such as West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.<ref name=India>{{cite news |first = Anil |last = Sharma |title = Starting the day with the cup that kicks |url = http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=8d0650c1-e9d9-4f7e-a683-6b3cc8bdd778 |publisher = Hindustan Times |location = Udaipur |date = 4 November 2007 |accessdate = 2008-03-24 |quote = At six in the morning, people begin slowly trooping into government-run bhang shops in the district for the drink, made from the leaves of cannabis that grows wild in many parts of northern India. }}</ref> Many states such as West Bengal, Tripura, and the North East have their own laws allowing cannabis, locally known as ganja.
+
| India || Illegal || Illegal(with government regulated license) || Illegal || Illegal || Used during observance of certain Hindu rituals. Government-owned shops in holy cities like Varanasi sell cannabis in the form of bhang. Despite the high prevalent usage, this law is Illegal but rarely enforced and treated as a low priority across India. Tourist may often be searched by police officers, but usually in the goal of being bribed and not punished. Further, large tracts of cannabis grow unchecked in the wild in many parts of northern and southern India in many states such as West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.Many states such as West Bengal, Tripura, and the North East have their own laws allowing cannabis, locally known as ganja.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Ireland}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || In November 2013 a bill was presented to the Irish government by [[Teachta Dála|TD]] [[Luke 'Ming' Flanagan]] to legalize Cannabis in the country. However the ''Cannabis Regulation Bill 2013'' was defeated by a margin of 111–8 in [[Dáil Éireann]] on 6 November.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/ireland-ready-for-legalisation-of-cannabis-1.1571857 | title=Ireland ‘ready for legalisation of cannabis’ | publisher=Irish Times | date=24 October 2013 | accessdate=30 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/justice/criminal_law/criminal_offences/drug_offences.html |publisher = Citizens Information Board |location = Dublin |date = 2 June 2011 |accessdate = 2011-06-02 |title = Drug Offences }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2013/1106/485090-cannabis-dail/ | title=Legalisation of cannabis motion defeated in Dáil | publisher = RTE | date= 6 November 2013 | accessdate=7 December 2013}}</ref> It was the first bill of its kind in a National Parliament in Europe.
+
| Ireland || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || In November 2013 a bill was presented to the Irish government by Teachta Dála|TD Luke 'Ming' Flanagan to legalize Cannabis in the country. However the ''Cannabis Regulation Bill 2013'' was defeated by a margin of 111–8 in Dáil Éireann on 6 November.It was the first bill of its kind in a National Parliament in Europe.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Israel}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Very small scale of legal usage of medicinal cannabis. However, personal use is relatively decriminalized with little to no penalties for convicted first time violators.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_law.shtml#israel |title = Cannabis legal status vault – Israel |publisher = Erowid.org |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Israel || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal| || Illegal || Very small scale of legal usage of medicinal cannabis. However, personal use is relatively decriminalized with little to no penalties for convicted first time violators.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Italy}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Possession of small amounts for personal use is a misdemeanor subject to fines and the suspension of documents (passports and/or drivers licenses). The sale of cannabis products is illegal and punishable by imprisonment; cultivation is likewise punishable by imprisonment, even if in small amounts and for exclusive personal use. Licensed cultivation for medical and industrial use is strictly regulated.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prefetturateramo.linkonline.it/REFERENDUM/PRECEDENTI/1974-1993.htm|title=linkonline.it|publisher=|accessdate=14 January 2015}}</ref>
+
| Italy || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal|| no || Possession of small amounts for personal use is a misdemeanor subject to fines and the suspension of documents (passports and/or drivers licenses). The sale of cannabis products is illegal and punishable by imprisonment; cultivation is likewise punishable by imprisonment, even if in small amounts and for exclusive personal use. Licensed cultivation for medical and industrial use is strictly regulated.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Jamaica}} || {{partial|Illegal (tentatively decriminalized)}} || {{partial|Illegal (tentatively decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{partial|Illegal (tentatively decriminalized)}} || Cultivation, retail and consumption is illegal. However this is often overlooked and cannabis is sold openly. As of 22 January 2015, the Jamaican cabinet has approved a bill to decriminalise possession of small amounts of the drug and allow limited private cultivation.<ref name="The Guardian-Jamaica">{{cite news|title=Jamaica poised to relax cannabis laws|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/jan/22/jamaica-considers-cannabis-legalisation|accessdate=22 January 2015|publisher=The Guardian|date=22 January 2015}}</ref>
+
| Jamaica || Illegal (tentatively decriminalized) || Illegal (tentatively decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal (tentatively decriminalized) || Cultivation, retail and consumption is illegal. However this is often overlooked and cannabis is sold openly. As of 22 January 2015, the Jamaican cabinet has approved a bill to decriminalise possession of small amounts of the drug and allow limited private cultivation.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Japan}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Possession is punishable by up to five years in prison. Importing or selling cannabis is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and up to 30 million yen.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.nco.go.jp/lows/low6.html |title = 大麻取締法 |publisher = Nco.go.jp |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Japan || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession is punishable by up to five years in prison. Importing or selling cannabis is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and up to 30 million yen.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Jordan}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Possession is illegal and may be punishable by prison sentence.<ref>{{citation |url = http://jordantimes.com/index.php?news=30952 |title = When marijuana is legal |publisher = Jordan Times |date = 15 October 2010 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Jordan || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession is illegal and may be punishable by prison sentence.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Laos}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || As of 2009, a [[mandatory death penalty]] is applied for certain cases.<ref>{{cite web |title = End the Death Penalty for Drug-Related Offenses |url = http://www.cannabisculture.com/content/end-death-penalty-drug-related-offenses |work = Cannabis Culture |publisher = Cannabis Culture Magazine |accessdate = 23 September 2013 |author = Human Rights Watch |date = 22 June 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title = Briton returned to UK after Laos drug sentence loses battle to be freed |url = http://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/jan/20/samantha-orobator-laos-drugs-conviction |accessdate = 23 September 2013 |newspaper = The Guardian |date = 20 January 2010 |author = James Meikle }}</ref>
+
| Laos || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || As of 2009, a mandatory death penalty is applied for certain cases.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Latvia}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Cannabis is illegal in Latvia.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.likumi.lv/doc.php?mode=DOC&id=50539 |title=Par Krimināllikuma spēkā stāšanās un piemērošanas kārtību |publisher=''[[likumi.lv]]'' |date= |accessdate=2013-06-23 |language=Latvian}}</ref> Possession of larger quantities can be punished with up to 15 years in prison. Possession of quantities up to 1g are fined up to 280 euro, for second offences within a year period criminal charges are applied.  
+
| Latvia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Cannabis is illegal in Latvia. Possession of larger quantities can be punished with up to 15 years in prison. Possession of quantities up to 1g are fined up to 280 euro, for second offences within a year period criminal charges are applied.  
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Lebanon}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Possession is illegal. However, large amounts are grown within the country and personal use, as long as not in public is not a major issue.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/1016/p06s02-wome.html |title = In Lebanon, a comeback for cannabis / The Christian Science Monitor |publisher = CSMonitor.com |date = 16 October 2007 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Lebanon || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession is illegal. However, large amounts are grown within the country and personal use, as long as not in public is not a major issue.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Lithuania}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.1stmarijuanagrowerspage.com/lithuania-marijuana-cannabis-laws.html |title = Lithuania's marijuana cannabis law |publisher = 1stmarijuanagrowerspage.com |date = 23 April 2003 |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Lithuania || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || noIllegal||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Luxembourg}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Possession, transportation and consumption are illegal. Prosecution depends on the amount of cannabis one possesses. Since 2001, prison penalty has been substituted by a monetary fine ranging from 250 to 2500 [[Euro]]s.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.legilux.public.lu/leg/a/archives/2001/0611705/0611705.pdf#page=2 |work = Excerpt of the "Mémorial A" of the Luxembourgish legislation |title = Art. 7 and Art. 8 refer to the usage of narcotics }}</ref>
+
| Luxembourg || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Possession, transportation and consumption are illegal. Prosecution depends on the amount of cannabis one possesses. Since 2001, prison penalty has been substituted by a monetary fine ranging from 250 to 2500 Euros.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''{{Flagu|Macau}}'' || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||
+
| Macau || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Macedonia}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || If one possesses a larger amount, a jail sentence of anywhere from three months to five years could possibly be given.<ref>{{citation |author =  |url = http://www.encod.org/info/MACEDONIA.html |title = European Coalition for Just and Effective Drug Policies |publisher = Encod.org |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Macedonia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || If one possesses a larger amount, a jail sentence of anywhere from three months to five years could possibly be given.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Malaysia}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Malaysian legislation provides for a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers. Individuals arrested in possession of 15&nbsp;grams (1/2 ounce) of heroin or 200&nbsp;grams (seven ounces) of marijuana are presumed by law to be trafficking in drugs.<ref>{{citation |url = http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_960.html |title = Malaysia |publisher = Travel.state.gov |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Malaysia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Malaysian legislation provides for a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers. Individuals arrested in possession of 15&nbsp;grams (1/2 ounce) of heroin or 200&nbsp;grams (seven ounces) of marijuana are presumed by law to be trafficking in drugs.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Malta}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Chapter 101 of Maltese law (Dangerous Drugs Ordinance) does not specify amounts considered to indicated differences between possession and trafficking (persons with as little as three grammes of cannabis have been charged with dealing) and treats all illegal drugs the same. Penalties for trafficking any illegal drug range between four years and a life sentence and a fine between 2,329.37 Euro and 116,468.67 Euro. Penalties for possession are between 12 months to ten years imprisonment and 465.87 Euro and 23,293.73 Euro in fines.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8641&l=1 |publisher = Malta Ministry of Justice |title = Laws of Malta, Dangerous Drugs Ordinance }}</ref> Although prosecution is unlikely, the sale and consumption of cannabis is widely found in Malta..<ref>{{citation |url = http://marijuanamalta.com/buying/ |publisher = MarijuanaMalta.com |title = Buying Marijuana in Malta }}</ref>
+
| Malta || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Chapter 101 of Maltese law (Dangerous Drugs Ordinance) does not specify amounts considered to indicated differences between possession and trafficking (persons with as little as three grammes of cannabis have been charged with dealing) and treats all illegal drugs the same. Penalties for trafficking any illegal drug range between four years and a life sentence and a fine between 2,329.37 Euro and 116,468.67 Euro. Penalties for possession are between 12 months to ten years imprisonment and 465.87 Euro and 23,293.73 Euro in fines.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Mexico}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{Main|Mexican Drug War}} On 21 August 2009 Mexico decriminalized "personal use" possession of up to five&nbsp;grams of Cannabis.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/21/world/americas/21mexico.html |work = The New York Times |title = Mexico Legalizes Drug Possession |date = 21 August 2009 |accessdate = 2010-04-04 }}</ref> Growing and selling Cannabis is illegal.
+
| Mexico || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || On 21 August 2009 Mexico decriminalized "personal use" possession of up to five&nbsp;grams of Cannabis. Growing and selling Cannabis is illegal.||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Montenegro}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.stopdrogama.org/projekti1.htm |title = Projekti – Zakonodavstvo |publisher = Stop drogama |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
|Nepal || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Marijuana and its derivatives, such as Hashish, are widely available throughout Nepal.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Nepal}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Marijuana and its derivatives, such as Hashish, are widely available throughout Nepal.{{citation needed|date=December 2011}}
+
| Netherlands || Iegal (in smoking areas, decriminalized for personal) || Iegal(only for coffeeshops) || Illegal (but for coffee shops not enforced) || Illegal (exceptions for personal use) || Drug policy of the Netherlands Cannabis products are only sold openly in certain local [[Cannabis coffee shop]]|"coffeeshops" and possession of up to 5 grams for personal use is decriminalized. Other types of sales and transportation are not permitted, although the general legal approach toward cannabis was before de facto decriminalization.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Netherlands}} || {{yes|Legal in smoking areas, decriminalized for personal use}} || {{yes|Legal (only for coffeeshops)}} || {{partial|Illegal (but for coffee shops not enforced)}} || {{partial|Illegal (exceptions for personal use)}} || {{Main|Drug policy of the Netherlands}} Cannabis products are only sold openly in certain local [[Cannabis coffee shop|"coffeeshops"]] and possession of up to 5 grams for personal use is decriminalized. Other types of sales and transportation are not permitted, although the general legal approach toward cannabis was before de facto [[decriminalization]].<ref>{{citation |url = http://eldd.emcdda.europa.eu/html.cfm/index5174EN.html# |title = Use drop-down menu on site to view Netherlands entry.) |publisher = Eldd.emcdda.europa.eu |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref><ref>{{citation |url = http://www.ukcia.org/research/dutch.php |title = Drugs Policy in the Netherlands |publisher = Ukcia.org |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.theatlanticwire.com/global/2011/05/amsterdam-ban-pot-sales-tourists/38248/ |title = Amsterdam Will Ban Tourists from Pot Coffee Shops |work = Atlantic Wire |accessdate = 2011-06-23 |last =  |first =  |date = 27 May 2011 }}
+
| New Zealand || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Cultivation, possession or sale of cannabis is illegal. The fruit, seeds, and any other part of the plant are scheduled as Class C substances.[[Hashish]], [[hash oil]], [[THC]], and any other preparations containing THC made by processing the plant are scheduled as Class B substances. In July 2009, a bill promoted by Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand|Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei amending the law to permit the use of medicinal cannabis was defeated 84–34 at its first reading, with all members of the ruling New Zealand National Party|National Party voting against it.
−
</ref>
+
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|New Zealand}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{See also|Cannabis in New Zealand}}
+
| North Korea || Iegal || legal || legal || legal || Although several drugs are illegal in North Korea, Cannabis is not one of them. ||
−
Cultivation, possession or sale of cannabis is illegal.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_law.shtml#newzealand |title = Cannabis legal status vault – New Zealand |publisher = Erowid.org |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref> The fruit, seeds, and any other part of the plant are scheduled as Class C substances.<ref name="MoDANZ311">{{citation |url = http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1975/0116/37.0/DLM436723.html |title = Schedule 3: Class C controlled drugs |date = 8 September 2011 |work = Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 No 116 (as at 08 September 2011), Public Act |publisher = [[Parliamentary Counsel Office (New Zealand)|New Zealand Parliamentary Counsel Office/Te Tari Tohutohu Pāremata]] |location = [[Wellington]], New Zealand |at = Part 1 clause 1 |accessdate = 26 February 2012 |ref = MoDANZ311 }}</ref> [[Hashish]], [[hash oil]], [[THC]], and any other preparations containing THC made by processing the plant are scheduled as Class B substances.<ref name="MoDANZ211">{{citation |url = http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1975/0116/37.0/DLM436586.html |title = Schedule 2: Class B controlled drugs |date = 8 September 2011 |work = Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 No 116 (as at 08 September 2011), Public Act |publisher = [[Parliamentary Counsel Office (New Zealand)|New Zealand Parliamentary Counsel Office/Te Tari Tohutohu Pāremata]] |location = [[Wellington]], New Zealand |at = Part 1 clause 1 |accessdate = 26 February 2012 |ref = MoDANZ211 }}</ref> In July 2009, a bill promoted by [[Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand|Green Party]] co-leader [[Metiria Turei]] amending the law to permit the use of [[medicinal cannabis]] was defeated 84–34 at its first reading, with all members of the ruling [[New Zealand National Party|National Party]] voting against it.<ref>{{cite news |title = Medicinal use of cannabis bill defeated |url = http://tvnz.co.nz/politics-news/medicinal-use-cannabis-bill-defeated-2821959 |agency = [[New Zealand Press Association|NZPA]] |publisher = [[Television New Zealand|TVNZ]] |location = New Zealand |date = 1 July 2009 |accessdate = 26 February 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |date = 1 July 2009 |title = Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill – First Reading |journal = Hansard |volume = 655 |page = 4850 |location = [[Wellington]], New Zealand |publisher = [[New Zealand House of Representatives]] |accessdate = 26 February 2012 |url = http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/Debates/Debates/9/6/a/49HansD_20090701_00001165-Misuse-of-Drugs-Medicinal-Cannabis-Amendment.htm }}</ref>
+
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|North Korea}} || {{yes|Legal}} || {{yes|Legal}} || {{yes|Legal}} || {{yes|Legal}} || Although several drugs are illegal in North Korea, Cannabis is not one of them.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/08/marijuana-in-north-korea_n_4067341.html|title=When It Comes To Marijuana, North Korea Appears To Have Liberal Policy Of Tolerance|work=The Huffington Post|accessdate=14 January 2015}}</ref>
+
| Northern Mariana Islands || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Legal history of cannabis in the United States|United States. A bill was passed to legalize marijuana. But the governor will only allow medical cannabis to be legal.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''{{Flagu|Northern Mariana Islands}}'' || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{Main|Legal history of cannabis in the United States|United States}} A bill was passed to legalize marijuana. But the governor will only allow medical cannabis to be legal.<ref name="Northern Mariana Islands">{{cite news |title = Marianas Islands Marijuana Legalization Bill Passes House|url = http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle/2010/nov/12/marianas_islands_marijuana_legal |publisher = stopthedrugwar|location = United States |date = 2010-11-12 }}</ref>
+
| Norway || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Up to 15&nbsp;grams is considered an amount for personal use, and is punished with a fine of 1500-15000 Norwegian krone|kroner in the case of first-time offenders; possessing more is considered dealing and punished more harshly. Repeat offenders or dealers face prison charges.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Norway}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Up to 15&nbsp;grams is considered an amount for personal use, and is punished with a fine of 1500-15000 [[Norwegian krone|kroner]] in the case of first-time offenders; possessing more is considered dealing and punished more harshly. Repeat offenders or dealers face prison charges.<ref name=Norway>{{cite news |title = Mildere straff for hasjbesittelse |url = http://www.vg.no/nyheter/innenriks/artikkel.php?artid=123519 |publisher = VG Nett |location = Norway |date = 2006-07-20 |language = Norwegian }}</ref> It's the same punishment with between 6 months and 2 years for personal use, and between 6 months and 21 years for selling in prison for all [[narcotic]]s.
+
| Pakistan || Illegal, but mostly tolerated || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal(decriminalized|| Laws prohibiting the sale and misuse of cannabis exist, but are very rarely enforced. As with hash, the occasional use of cannabis in community gatherings is broadly tolerated as a centuries old custom, despite its association with lower-income groups. The open use of cannabis by Sufis and Hindus as a means to induce euphoria has never been challenged by the state. Further, large tracts of cannabis grow unchecked in the wild.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Pakistan}} || {{partial|Illegal, but mostly tolerated}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized for personal use)}} || Laws prohibiting the sale and misuse of cannabis exist, but are very rarely enforced. As with hash, the occasional use of cannabis in community gatherings is broadly tolerated as a centuries old custom, despite its association with lower-income groups. The open use of cannabis by [[Sufis]] and Hindus as a means to induce euphoria has never been challenged by the state. Further, large tracts of cannabis grow unchecked in the wild.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_law.shtml#pakistan |title = Cannabis legal status vault – Pakistan/Peshawar |publisher = Erowid.org }}</ref>
+
| Panama || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||  
 +
Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Panama are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Panama}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||  
+
| Peru || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal (decriminalized)| || Illegal (decriminalized) || Possession is not illegal, defined by Art. 299. Possession of under 8 grams is considered personal use and it is legal and not punished.
−
Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Panama are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_994.html#criminal_penalties |title=Panama |publisher=Travel.state.gov |date= |accessdate=2013-12-03}}</ref>
+
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Paraguay}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} ||<ref name="erowid-SA"/>
+
| Philippines || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, makes provision for restricted medical use.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Peru}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || Possession is not illegal, defined by Art. 299. Possession of under 8 grams is considered personal use and it is legal and not punished.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.seguridadidl.org.pe/normas/ley28002.htm |title = Modificando el Código Penal en materia de Tráfico Ilícito de Drogas |publisher = Instituto de Defensa Legal – Seguridad Ciudadana |archiveurl = http://wayback.archive.org/web/20121015002927/http://www.seguridadidl.org.pe/normas/ley28002.htm |archivedate = 2012-10-15 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.opd.gob.pe/modulos/CDocumentacion/DOCUMENTOS/LEG_00051_ley%2028002%20modifica%20cod%20penal%20tid%202003.pdf |title = Ley Nº 28002 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.monografias.com/trabajos27/codigo-penal-peruano/codigo-penal-peruano4.shtml |title = Código Penal. Decreto Legislativo Nº 635 }}</ref>
+
| Poland || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || On 26 May 2011, Poland introduced legislation to terminate the prosecution for possession of small amounts of drugs for personal use. The law introduces the possibility when a person has negligible amounts of drugs for personal use and is not a dealer. But this is only theory, in practice it's still illegal. The legislation raised the maximum possible penalty for placing a large number of drugs from 10 to 12 years in prison. However, for possession of large quantities of drugs would result up to 10 years in prison (previously up to 8 years).
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Philippines}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, makes provision for restricted medical use.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2002/ra_9165_2002.html |title = R.a. 9165 |publisher = Lawphil.net |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Portugal || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal (decriminalized) || In 2001, Portugal became the first country in the world to decriminalize the use of all drugs, and started treating drug users as sick people, instead of criminals, although you can be arrested or assigned mandatory rehab if caught several times in possession.  
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Flagu|Poland}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || On 26 May 2011, Poland introduced legislation to terminate the prosecution for possession of small amounts of drugs for personal use. The law introduces the possibility when a person has negligible amounts of drugs for personal use and is not a dealer. But this is only theory, in practice it's still illegal. The legislation raised the maximum possible penalty for placing a large number of drugs from 10 to 12 years in prison. However, for possession of large quantities of drugs would result up to 10 years in prison (previously up to 8 years).<ref>{{citation |url = http://fakty.interia.pl/fakty_dnia/news/narkotyki-w-malych-ilosciach-i-na-wlasny-uzytek-odstapienie,1644751 |title = Drugs in small quantity and for personal use with no punishment – Poland |publisher = Interia.pl |date = 26 May 2011 |accessdate = 2011-05-29 }}</ref>
+
| Puerto Rico || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Legal history of cannabis in the United States The Puerto Rican government is considering to decrimalize cannabis for medical use
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Portugal || partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || {{partial|Illegal (decriminalized)}} || In 2001, Portugal became the first country in the world to decriminalize the use of all drugs, and started treating drug users as sick people, instead of criminals, although you can be arrested or assigned mandatory rehab if caught several times in possession. See [[Drug policy of Portugal]]
+
| Romania || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Romania was (before 1990) a leader in hemp fiber, second only to China. However, possession of small quantities of drug preparations is punishable by a small fine of about $150–200 USD. Possession of large amounts may result in 3–6 years of jail time, and sale may result in more than 6 years jail time.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Puerto Rico || no || no|| no || no || Main|Legal history of cannabis in the United States The Puerto Rican government is considering to decrimalize cannabis for medical use
+
| Russia || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal || Illegal (decriminalized) || Illegal (decriminalized) || Possession or transport of up to 6&nbsp;grams (dry weight) of cannabis or 2&nbsp;grams of hashish with no sale intent is punishable by fine. Possession or transport of more than this amount is punishable by prison term.
−
|-
+
−
| Romania || no || no || no || no || Romania was (before 1990) a leader in hemp fiber, second only to China. However, possession of small quantities of drug preparations is punishable by a small fine of about $150–200 USD. Possession of large amounts may result in 3–6 years of jail time, and sale may result in more than 6 years jail time.
+
−
|-
+
−
| Russia || partial || no || partial || partial || Possession or transport of up to 6&nbsp;grams (dry weight) of cannabis or 2&nbsp;grams of hashish with no sale intent is punishable by fine. Possession or transport of more than this amount is punishable by prison term.
+
 
Cultivation of less than 20 cannabis plants is decriminalized (punishable by fine) since 2010. Plant itself is illegal.
 
Cultivation of less than 20 cannabis plants is decriminalized (punishable by fine) since 2010. Plant itself is illegal.
 
Cannabis seeds contain no controlled substances and are not regulated.
 
Cannabis seeds contain no controlled substances and are not regulated.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Saudi Arabia || no || no ||no || no || Use and possession for personal use of any kind of recreational drugs is punishable by imprisonment if caught. Imprisonment for personal use could go up to six months jail time or more. Dealing and smuggling of high amounts of drugs usually result in harsher prison time or even execution, although recently executions are rare. Foreigners who use drugs might be deported.
+
| Saudi Arabia || Illegal || Illegal ||Illegal || Illegal || Use and possession for personal use of any kind of recreational drugs is punishable by imprisonment if caught. Imprisonment for personal use could go up to six months jail time or more. Dealing and smuggling of high amounts of drugs usually result in harsher prison time or even execution, although recently executions are rare. Foreigners who use drugs might be deported.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Serbia || no || no || no || no ||The Criminal Code of Serbia outlaws possession (article 246a), sale, transport and cultivation (article 246) of all psychoactive substances.
+
| Serbia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||The Criminal Code of Serbia outlaws possession (article 246a), sale, transport and cultivation (article 246) of all psychoactive substances.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Singapore || no|| {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || {{no|Illegal}} || Cannabis is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, making it illegal to cultivate, sell or possess.<ref>{{citation |url = http://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_law.shtml#singapore |title = Cannabis legal status vault – Singapore |publisher = Erowid.org |date =  |accessdate = 2011-02-17 }}</ref>
+
| Singapore || Illegal|| Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Cannabis is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, making it illegal to cultivate, sell or possess.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Slovakia || no || no|| || no || Possession or use of small amounts of Cannabis is punishable by up to three years in prison.
+
| Slovakia || Illegal || || Illegal || Illegal || Possession or use of small amounts of Cannabis is punishable by up to three years in prison.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Slovenia || no || no || no || partial|Cannabis cultivation is not illegal for cannabis growers, growing weed with ≤ 0.2 % THC on a ≤ 0.1 ha surface, or ≥ 0.1 ha surface with a govermental permit for cannabis cultivation.
+
| Slovenia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Cannabis cultivation is not illegal for cannabis growers, growing weed with ≤ 0.2 % THC on a ≤ 0.1 ha surface, or ≥ 0.1 ha surface with a govermental permit for cannabis cultivation.|| There was a proposal of 2012 that would decriminalise medical cannabis, failed with not enough support. The petition for support for medical marijuana decriminalisation for was re-proposed in 2013, succeeded in gaining enough public support for legal cannabis, but the Slovenian government rather re-classified cannabis from Class B to Class A illegal drugs, designated fines for small quantity possetion and declared it "decriminalisation" of medical marijuana in 2014.||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Somalia || no || no || no || no ||
+
| Somalia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| South Africa || no || no || no || no| ||There is a proposal of 2014 that would decriminalise medical cannabis  
+
| South Africa || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal| ||There is a proposal of 2014 that would decriminalise medical cannabis  
 
|-
 
|-
−
| South Korea} || no || no|| no || no || Cannabis "is illegal in South Korea."
+
| South Korea} || Illegal || Illegal|| Illegal || Illegal || Cannabis "is illegal in South Korea.South Koreans can be prosecuted in South Korea for use of cannabis in other countries as well, as happened to a South Korean-American hip hop artist who will "spend eight long months in a South Korean prison" for his cannabis use while in the U.S.||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Spain || partial ||no || no|| no || Buying or selling any quantity of cannabis is a criminal offence. Possession and consumption in a public place constitutes a misdemeanour and is penalized with a fine and confiscation. Growing the plant on private property for personal use, and consumption by adults in a private space, is legal.
+
| Spain || Illegal(decriminalized) ||Illegal || Illegal|| Illegal || Buying or selling any quantity of cannabis is a criminal offence. Possession and consumption in a public place constitutes a misdemeanour and is penalized with a fine and confiscation. Growing the plant on private property for personal use, and consumption by adults in a private space, is legal.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Sri Lanka || no || no|| no || no || Cannabis is illegal in Sri Lanka though it is commonly used in [[Ayurveda|Ayurvedic]] traditional medicines.
+
| Sri Lanka || Illegal || Illegal|| Illegal || Illegal || Cannabis is illegal in Sri Lanka though it is commonly used in Ayurveda|Ayurvedic traditional medicines.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Sweden || no || no || no || no|| Further|Legality of cannabis#Sweden|Drug policy of Sweden}} It is illegal to sell, transfer, purchase, use or possess any quantity of cannabis in Sweden. Social stigmatisation through social rejection and exclusion from the labourmarket and social services are the most common sanctions in matters regarding personal use. The national police runs a "disturb and annoy" program aimed at users supported by the national "zero tolerance" policy. .
+
|Sweden || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Legality of cannabis#Sweden|Drug policy of Sweden It is illegal to sell, transfer, purchase, use or possess any quantity of cannabis in Sweden. Social stigmatisation through social rejection and exclusion from the labourmarket and social services are the most common sanctions in matters regarding personal use. The national police runs a "disturb and annoy" program aimed at users supported by the national "zero tolerance" policy. .
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Switzerland || partial || no || no ||no || Main|Cannabis in Switzerland
+
| Switzerland || Illegal(decriminalized)|| Illegal || Illegal ||Illegal || [[Cannabis in Switzerland}}
 
Cannabis is decriminalized for possession, sale or transport is Illegal but cultivation is legal in a private property only. However, usually only the minimum penalty is imposed for possession and personal use, even for larger amounts. The federal council has committed to implement changes as to decriminalization of personal use and possession already in 2001, and the parliament is currently tasked to tender concrete approaches. As nothing is coming forth on a parliamentary basis, a referendum was launched in 2008.
 
Cannabis is decriminalized for possession, sale or transport is Illegal but cultivation is legal in a private property only. However, usually only the minimum penalty is imposed for possession and personal use, even for larger amounts. The federal council has committed to implement changes as to decriminalization of personal use and possession already in 2001, and the parliament is currently tasked to tender concrete approaches. As nothing is coming forth on a parliamentary basis, a referendum was launched in 2008.
  
 
As of 1 January 2012, the cantons Vaud, Neuchatel, Geneva and Fribourg have allowed the growing and cultivation of up to 4 cannabis plants per person, in an attempt to curb illegal street trafficking, but this cantonal law was unvalidated in October 2012, as federal law must prevail on cantonal law.
 
As of 1 January 2012, the cantons Vaud, Neuchatel, Geneva and Fribourg have allowed the growing and cultivation of up to 4 cannabis plants per person, in an attempt to curb illegal street trafficking, but this cantonal law was unvalidated in October 2012, as federal law must prevail on cantonal law.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Syria || no || no || no || no} || Under the policies of the government of [[Bashar al-Assad]], many cannabis offences, from simple use to trafficking, reportedly often carried a sentence of life imprisonment. As the country has become destabilised as a result of [[Syrian civil war|civil war]], people living in areas controlled by Kurdish separatists have begun growing cannabis as a way of making money to fight poverty.
+
| Syria || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Under the policies of the government of Bashar al-Assad, many cannabis offences, from simple use to trafficking, reportedly often carried a sentence of life imprisonment. As the country has become destabilised as a result of Syrian civil war|civil war, people living in areas controlled by Kurdish separatists have begun growing cannabis as a way of making money to fight poverty.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Republic of China (Taiwan) || no || no || no || no || Cannabis is a schedule 2 narcotic in the ROC, and possession can result in up to three years imprisonment.
+
| Republic of China (Taiwan) || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Cannabis is a schedule 2 narcotic in the ROC, and possession can result in up to three years imprisonment.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Tunisia || no || no || no || no ||
+
| Tunisia || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turkey || no || no} || no || no || Consuming any drug (personal use or not) is illegal and requires [[wikt:juridical|juridical]] process. Possessing, purchasing or receiving any illegal drug, including Cannabis, is punishable by 1–2 years in prison; there is also the option of treatment and/or probation for up to three years. If users refuse treatment or do not comply with probation requirements, the courts can decide on sentencing.
+
| Turkey || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Consuming any drug (personal use or not) is illegal and requires juridical|juridical process. Possessing, purchasing or receiving any illegal drug, including Cannabis, is punishable by 1–2 years in prison; there is also the option of treatment and/or probation for up to three years. If users refuse treatment or do not comply with probation requirements, the courts can decide on sentencing.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| United Arab Emirates || no || no || no || no || Even the smallest amounts of the drug can lead to a mandatory four-year prison sentence.
+
| United Arab Emirates || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Even the smallest amounts of the drug can lead to a mandatory four-year prison sentence.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| United Kingdom || no || no || no || no || Main|Cannabis reclassification in the United Kingdom
+
| United Kingdom || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || [[Cannabis reclassification in the United Kingdom]]
 
Cannabis is a Class B drug (moderate risk) in the UK. Police enforcement actions vary.
 
Cannabis is a Class B drug (moderate risk) in the UK. Police enforcement actions vary.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| United States || partial|Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level in Colorado, Washington (state)|Washington, Oregon, and Alaska and the cities of Portland, Maine|Portland and South Portland, Maine|South Portland, Maine; decriminalized in 14 states, medicinal legal in 20 states and [[Guam]]. All [[Indian Reservations]] are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) || {{partial|Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level with a state issued license in Colorado, Washington (state)|Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. Legal medicinal sales in several additional states. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation. )  || partial|Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level within the states of Colorado, Washington (state)|Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. Legal for medicinal patients in several additional states. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) || partial|Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level for individuals/commercial in Colorado, Alaska and Oregon, and commercially in Washington (state)|Washington. Medicinal growing is legal in several states as well. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) || Main|Legal history of marijuana in the United States|Legality of cannabis by US state
+
| United States || Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level in Colorado, Washington (state)|Washington, Oregon, and Alaska and the cities of Portland, Maine|Portland and South Portland, Maine|South Portland, Maine; decriminalized in 14 states, medicinal legal in 20 states and Guam. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) || Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level with a state issued license in Colorado, Washington (state)|Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. Legal medicinal sales in several additional states. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation. )  || Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level within the states of Colorado, Washington (state)|Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. Legal for medicinal patients in several additional states. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) || Illegal at the federal level (but legal at the state level for individuals/commercial in Colorado, Alaska and Oregon, and commercially in Washington (state)|Washington. Medicinal growing is legal in several states as well. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) || Legal history of marijuana in the United States|Legality of cannabis by US state
 
Laws vary by state, Territory, Indian Reservation, and the Federal District. Federal law classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, the same classification as heroin. The United States Supreme Court has ruled in ''Gonzales v. Raich'' that the federal government has the power to regulate and criminalize cannabis, even for medical purposes. The United States Department of Justice|Department of Justice recently allowed recognized Indian reservations to regulate marijuana within their reservation.
 
Laws vary by state, Territory, Indian Reservation, and the Federal District. Federal law classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, the same classification as heroin. The United States Supreme Court has ruled in ''Gonzales v. Raich'' that the federal government has the power to regulate and criminalize cannabis, even for medical purposes. The United States Department of Justice|Department of Justice recently allowed recognized Indian reservations to regulate marijuana within their reservation.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Ukraine ||  partial, possession of quantities of up to 5 grams || no|| partial(decriminalized), possession of quantities of up to 5 grams  ||  partial|Illegal (decriminalized) up to 10 plants || "Aspects of cannabis laws in Ukraine"
+
| Ukraine ||  Illegal, possession of quantities of up to 5 grams || Illegal || Illegal(decriminalized), possession of quantities of up to 5 grams  ||  Illegal (decriminalised) up to 10 plants || "Aspects of cannabis laws in Ukraine"
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Uruguay || yes || yes || yes || yes| || Main|Legality of cannabis in Uruguay
+
| Uruguay || legal || legal ||legal || legal || [[Legality of cannabis in Uruguay}}
 
José Mujica|Jose Mujica has fully legalized any use of Cannabis in Uruguay; law does not specify quantity for "personal amount".As of 10 December 2013, the Chamber of Deputies of Uruguay|House of Representatives and Senate of Uruguay|Senate passed a bill legalizing and regulating the production and sale of the drug. But the president has postponed the implementation to 2015 and parts of the opposition claim that the new law will never be implemented. The new law says that buyers must be 18 or older, residents of Uruguay, and must register with the authorities. Authorities will grow the cannabis that can be sold legal.
 
José Mujica|Jose Mujica has fully legalized any use of Cannabis in Uruguay; law does not specify quantity for "personal amount".As of 10 December 2013, the Chamber of Deputies of Uruguay|House of Representatives and Senate of Uruguay|Senate passed a bill legalizing and regulating the production and sale of the drug. But the president has postponed the implementation to 2015 and parts of the opposition claim that the new law will never be implemented. The new law says that buyers must be 18 or older, residents of Uruguay, and must register with the authorities. Authorities will grow the cannabis that can be sold legal.
 
In August 2014 claimed an opposition presidential candidate that the new law never is going to be applied, it is not workable.
 
In August 2014 claimed an opposition presidential candidate that the new law never is going to be applied, it is not workable.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Uzbekistan}} || no || no| || no || no| || Opiates, cannabis and other plants containing psychotropic substances are illegal.
+
| Uzbekistan || Illegal ||Illegal| || Illegal || Illegal| || Opiates, cannabis and other plants containing psychotropic substances are illegal.
 
|-
 
|-
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| Venezuela || no || no || no || no || As of 15 September 2010 possession of up to 20&nbsp;grams of Marijuana or 5&nbsp;grams of genetically modified Marijuana, if proven not to be for medical or personal consumption, is punishable by 1 to 2 years in prison at judge's discretion. If deemed to be for personal consumption, the user is subject to security measures involving rehabilitation and detoxification procedures. Articulos 131 y 153 de la Ley Organica de Drogas.
+
| Venezuela || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || As of 15 September 2010 possession of up to 20&nbsp;grams of Marijuana or 5&nbsp;grams of genetically modified Marijuana, if proven not to be for medical or personal consumption, is punishable by 1 to 2 years in prison at judge's discretion. If deemed to be for personal consumption, the user is subject to security measures involving rehabilitation and detoxification procedures. Articulos 131 y 153 de la Ley Organica de Drogas.
 
|-
 
|-
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| Vietnam || no || no || no || no ||
+
| Vietnam || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| U.S. Virgin Islands || partial, possession of quantities of up to an ounce || no || no|Illegal}} || no || Main|Legal history of cannabis in the United States|United States}} The governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands approved a bill that decriminalized possesion of marijuana up to an ounce.
+
| U.S. Virgin Islands || Illegal, possession of quantities of up to an ounce || Illegal || Illegal || Illegal || Legal history of cannabis in the United States|United States The governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands approved a bill that decriminalized possesion of marijuana up to an ounce.
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Zimbabwe || no| || no || no| || no ||
+
| Zimbabwe || Illegal| || Illegal|| Illegal| || Illegal ||
 
|-
 
|-
 
! '''Country/Territory''' !! '''Possession''' !! '''Sale''' !! '''Transport''' !! '''Cultivation''' !! '''Notes'''
 
! '''Country/Territory''' !! '''Possession''' !! '''Sale''' !! '''Transport''' !! '''Cultivation''' !! '''Notes'''

Latest revision as of 03:17, 31 January 2015

The legality of cannabis for general or recreational use varies from country to country. Possession of cannabis is illegal in most countries as a result of the agreement about Indian hemp, also known as hashish, in the International Opium Convention (1925). However, many countries have decriminalized the possession of small quantities of cannabis;


Some states in the US allow use of medical cannabis in state, territorial, Indian reservation, and Federal district laws, although the use is illegal by federal law. Federal agencies claim that federal law comes first.


As of January 2015, Bangladesh, the Netherlands, North Korea, Spain, Uruguay, the U.S. states of Alaska, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, the U.S. cities of Portland, and South Portland, both in Maine, and the U.S. Federal District(although blocked) has the most lax laws towards cannabis, while Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates have the most strict laws against cannabis.


List

Country/Territory Possession Sale Transport Cultivation Notes
Albania Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Albania is one of Europe's greatest producers of cannabis.
Algeria Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession is illegal
Argentina Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal medical purposes is accepted but not legislated (only in private locations). Cultivating, selling and transporting large amounts is illegal and punishable by present laws.
Australia Iegal (decriminalized in some states) Illegal One or two plants may be privately grown for personal use in the Australian Capital Territory and South Australia. Personal grows of up to two plants are decriminalized in the Northern Territory. Cannabis in Australia Decriminalized for personal use in small amounts in the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia and the Northern Territory. It is a criminal offence in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria (Australia)|Victoria and Tasmania. In SA a person can legally grow 1 non-hydroponic plant, and in the ACT 2 non-hydroponic plants may be grown on their own property for personal use, and in the N.T two non-hydroponic plants can be fined $200 with 28 days to pay rather than face criminal charge. Enforcement varies from state to state, With the rapid expansion in hydroponically grown cannabis cultivation, the Australian Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act (1985) was amended in 2006, reducing the amount of cannabis grown indoors under hydroponic conditions that qualifies as a 'commercial quantity' or as a 'large quantity'
Austria Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession (which includes the act of smoking) is punishable by prison time of up to 1 year (option of alternative therapy and subsequent waiving of sentence) If it was possessed for personal use the penalty is only up to half a year
Belgium Illegal Illegal Illegal (decriminalized for 1 bedrocan female plant) Since 2003 adults over the age of 18, in Belgium, were allowed to possess up to 3 grams. But since the 10th of October it has been made illegal again.
Belize Illegal, but mostly tolerated Illegal Illegal Cannabis use in Belize is common and largely tolerated; however, possession can result in fines or imprisonment.
Bolivia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession is illegal.
Botswana Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis (or Dagga) is illegal, but this is often unenforced.
Brazil Illegal (unpunished) Illegal Illegal Illegal The possession of illegal drugs in Brazil, for personal consumption, entails a warning, community service and education on the effects of drug use. The same applies for the planting and/or preparation of small amounts of any illegal drug.

Selling and transportation of any illegal drugs, as well as the possession or cultivation of larger amounts is characterized as drug trafficking, a criminal act punished with 5 to 15 years in prison and a significant fine.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Illegal Illegal Illegal All cannabis is illegal
Belarus Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal
Bulgari Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis is class A (High-risk) drug, together with Heroin, Cocaine, [[Amphetamines and MDMA (ecstasy). Until 2004 a loosely defined "personal dose" existed. Since 2006, after the last amendment of the Penal Code, the penalty for possession is 1 to 6 years in prison and a fine between 1,000 and 5,000 euros. For possession with an aim of distribution (drug-dealing) the sentence can range from 2 to 8 years for small amounts, through 3 to 12 years for large amounts, up to 5 to 15 years when executed by an organized criminal group. In these cases the maximum fine to be determined together with the prison time is 50,000 euros. Growing is punishable by 2 to 5 years and a fine up to 5,000 euros. The organizer of a growers group can receive from 10 to 20 years and has to pay a fine up to 100,000 euros and a participant in such a group – 3 to 10 years in prison and a fine of 2,500 to 5,000 euros.
Cambodia Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal (decriminalized) While technically illegal, the use of cannabis is widespread among the Khmer people and foreigners visiting the country. Marijuana can easily be purchased and smoked in public areas without the threat of arrest. Many "Happy" restaurants located in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville publicly offer food cooked with marijuana, or as a side garnish.
Canada Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Legal with government issued licence for medical or industrial purposes.
Chile Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal (Chile plants cannabis for medicinal use) Personal consumption, possession and cultivation (of any drug) is decriminalized when in private locations. Chilean authorities permits the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes only. In 2014, the Chilean authorities have given a local woman permission to import drugs made from cannabis.
People's Republic of China Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis is cultivated for its seeds and for fiber, and has a long medicinal history.
Colombia Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal (Legal up to 20 plants for personal consumption) Since 1994, cannabis has been decriminalized for possession of small amounts up to 22 grams for personal consumption, however sale remains illegal.
Comoros Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis was legal during the Comorian historical period between January 1975 and May 1978, when president Ali Soilih legalized cannabis consumption among other measures
Costa Rica Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal (decriminalized) Cannabis is illegal but there is a high tolerance of smoking marijuana throughout the country, a decriminalization system is implemented de facto since police officers do not detain people carrying enough for only personal consumption, yet no amount has been defined as a minimum for possession. Usage of Cannabis in Costa Rica is very high.
Croatia Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal kn ($800–3500) depending on the case in question.
Cuba Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal
Cyprus Illegal (small amount Legal for medical uses) no no Illegal (Legal for some farms to grow Hemp) Class B substance – life imprisonment is possible for use and maximum 8 years for possession (maximum 2 yrs for first offence for under 25 yr old). In practice, warning may be given to a minor unconscious first offender.
Czech Republic Illegal(decriminalized) Illegal (purchase legal; sale of medical cannabis legal, otherwise sale illegal) Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal(decriminalized) Drug policy of the Czech Republic }}Possession of up to fifteen grams for personal use or cultivation of up to five plants is merely a misdemeanor. Popular destination for smokers. Medical use of cannabis on prescription has been legal and regulated since 1 April 2013.
Denmark Illegal, but mostly tolerated Illegal Illegal Illegal As with all drugs, cannabis-related offences are punishable by a fine or imprisonment for up to 2 years Freetown Christiania, a self-declared autonomous region, is known for its cannabis trade.
Dominica Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Class B drug to cultivate, sell or possess
Ecuador Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession is not illegal, defined by Law 108.
Egypt Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Technically illegal. However, use is widespread and part of every day culture. Convictions are very rare for personal use . Formerly a plant of high status, with several documented medicinal uses in ancient times, cannabis was made illegal in 1925 with the League of Nations’ Geneva International Convention on Narcotic Control, and has been aggressively targeted at various points since then.
Estonia}} Illegal(decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal Up to 7.5 grams is considered an amount for personal use, and is punished with a fine. Large amounts and distribution are criminal offences, and are punishable with a fine or by up to 5 years in prison.
Ethiopia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Despite being the spiritual homeland of the Rastafari movement, possession of cannabis can result in up to 6 months imprisonment.
Finland Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Extremely limited group of medicinal users (12 people as of 31 January 2010) are permitted to purchase Sativex mouth spray from one special pharmacy in the city of Turku.
France Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cultivating, selling, owning or consuming cannabis is prohibited. However, legislation was enacted in June 2013 permitting the sale of medications containing cannabis derivatives.
Germany Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal self-harm, which is not considered a crime. The possession of small amounts is prosecuted, but charges are virtually always dropped. The definition of this "small amount" varies depending on the Federal state (Germany)|federal state, the state of Berlin being the most liberal, allowing 15 grams for personal use in most cases, while most states do not prosecute up to 6 grams.
Greece Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession or use of even small amounts is illegal in Greece. Individuals are arrested, although rarely convicted by court. Possession of large quantities may lead to several years in prison.

The Government was said to be preparing a bill that would decriminalize the use of drugs in August 2011, but finally the legislation was not changed at all.

Greenland Illegal Illegal Illegal
Hondura Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal The possession, sale, transportation and cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Honduras.
Hong Kong Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal The possession, sale, transportation, cultivation of cannabis is illegal under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance (Chapter 134 of the Law of Hong Kong).
Hungary Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal There is no distinction in Hungarian law between illicit drugs according to dangers. Heroin use has the same legal consequences as cannabis use. Hungarian law prohibits the distribution, and any use (including medical use). However the Penal code distinguishes the punishment between sale and personal use. 283. § (1) paragraph (a) states that "One cannot be punished for drug misuse; if a small, personal amount is produced, acquired, or in possession..." and continues to state that "... provided that before final verdict is determined a verification is provided that continuous 6-month therapy has taken place" The law determines that a "personal quantity" is defined as 1 gram of active substance (i.e. THC), therefore this equates to 12–100 grams of marijuana if calculated that marijuana contains 1–8% THC per unit mass. Possession of larger amounts can lead to a 5–10-year prison sentence.
celand Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Consumption is illegal even in small amounts. Possession, sale, transportation and cultivation could result in jail time. Possession is not strictly enforced. Heavy fines are given.
Indonesia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Minimum sentence of four years in prison (additional fines may apply) if caught in possession. However, if the user voluntarily reports himself/herself to the police, or is reported by his/her family, the charges will be dropped in accordance to 2009 Narcotics Act, article 24 paragraph 2, 3, 4.
India Illegal Illegal(with government regulated license) Illegal Illegal Used during observance of certain Hindu rituals. Government-owned shops in holy cities like Varanasi sell cannabis in the form of bhang. Despite the high prevalent usage, this law is Illegal but rarely enforced and treated as a low priority across India. Tourist may often be searched by police officers, but usually in the goal of being bribed and not punished. Further, large tracts of cannabis grow unchecked in the wild in many parts of northern and southern India in many states such as West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.Many states such as West Bengal, Tripura, and the North East have their own laws allowing cannabis, locally known as ganja.
Ireland Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal TD Luke 'Ming' Flanagan to legalize Cannabis in the country. However the Cannabis Regulation Bill 2013 was defeated by a margin of 111–8 in Dáil Éireann on 6 November.It was the first bill of its kind in a National Parliament in Europe.
Israel Illegal Illegal Illegal Very small scale of legal usage of medicinal cannabis. However, personal use is relatively decriminalized with little to no penalties for convicted first time violators.
Italy Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal no Possession of small amounts for personal use is a misdemeanor subject to fines and the suspension of documents (passports and/or drivers licenses). The sale of cannabis products is illegal and punishable by imprisonment; cultivation is likewise punishable by imprisonment, even if in small amounts and for exclusive personal use. Licensed cultivation for medical and industrial use is strictly regulated.
Jamaica Illegal (tentatively decriminalized) Illegal (tentatively decriminalized) Illegal Illegal (tentatively decriminalized) Cultivation, retail and consumption is illegal. However this is often overlooked and cannabis is sold openly. As of 22 January 2015, the Jamaican cabinet has approved a bill to decriminalise possession of small amounts of the drug and allow limited private cultivation.
Japan Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession is punishable by up to five years in prison. Importing or selling cannabis is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and up to 30 million yen.
Jordan Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession is illegal and may be punishable by prison sentence.
Laos Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal As of 2009, a mandatory death penalty is applied for certain cases.
Latvia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis is illegal in Latvia. Possession of larger quantities can be punished with up to 15 years in prison. Possession of quantities up to 1g are fined up to 280 euro, for second offences within a year period criminal charges are applied.
Lebanon Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession is illegal. However, large amounts are grown within the country and personal use, as long as not in public is not a major issue.
Lithuania Illegal Illegal Illegal noIllegal
Luxembourg Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession, transportation and consumption are illegal. Prosecution depends on the amount of cannabis one possesses. Since 2001, prison penalty has been substituted by a monetary fine ranging from 250 to 2500 Euros.
Macau Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal
Macedonia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal If one possesses a larger amount, a jail sentence of anywhere from three months to five years could possibly be given.
Malaysia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Malaysian legislation provides for a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers. Individuals arrested in possession of 15 grams (1/2 ounce) of heroin or 200 grams (seven ounces) of marijuana are presumed by law to be trafficking in drugs.
Malta Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Chapter 101 of Maltese law (Dangerous Drugs Ordinance) does not specify amounts considered to indicated differences between possession and trafficking (persons with as little as three grammes of cannabis have been charged with dealing) and treats all illegal drugs the same. Penalties for trafficking any illegal drug range between four years and a life sentence and a fine between 2,329.37 Euro and 116,468.67 Euro. Penalties for possession are between 12 months to ten years imprisonment and 465.87 Euro and 23,293.73 Euro in fines.
Mexico Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal On 21 August 2009 Mexico decriminalized "personal use" possession of up to five grams of Cannabis. Growing and selling Cannabis is illegal.
Nepal Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal Marijuana and its derivatives, such as Hashish, are widely available throughout Nepal.
Netherlands Iegal (in smoking areas, decriminalized for personal) Iegal(only for coffeeshops) Illegal (but for coffee shops not enforced) Illegal (exceptions for personal use) Drug policy of the Netherlands Cannabis products are only sold openly in certain local Cannabis coffee shop|"coffeeshops" and possession of up to 5 grams for personal use is decriminalized. Other types of sales and transportation are not permitted, although the general legal approach toward cannabis was before de facto decriminalization.
New Zealand Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cultivation, possession or sale of cannabis is illegal. The fruit, seeds, and any other part of the plant are scheduled as Class C substances.Hashish, hash oil, THC, and any other preparations containing THC made by processing the plant are scheduled as Class B substances. In July 2009, a bill promoted by Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand|Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei amending the law to permit the use of medicinal cannabis was defeated 84–34 at its first reading, with all members of the ruling New Zealand National Party|National Party voting against it.
North Korea Iegal legal legal legal Although several drugs are illegal in North Korea, Cannabis is not one of them.
Northern Mariana Islands Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal United States. A bill was passed to legalize marijuana. But the governor will only allow medical cannabis to be legal.
Norway Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal kroner in the case of first-time offenders; possessing more is considered dealing and punished more harshly. Repeat offenders or dealers face prison charges.
Pakistan Illegal, but mostly tolerated Illegal Illegal Illegal(decriminalized Laws prohibiting the sale and misuse of cannabis exist, but are very rarely enforced. As with hash, the occasional use of cannabis in community gatherings is broadly tolerated as a centuries old custom, despite its association with lower-income groups. The open use of cannabis by Sufis and Hindus as a means to induce euphoria has never been challenged by the state. Further, large tracts of cannabis grow unchecked in the wild.
Panama Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Panama are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Peru Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal (decriminalized) Possession is not illegal, defined by Art. 299. Possession of under 8 grams is considered personal use and it is legal and not punished.
Philippines Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, makes provision for restricted medical use.
Poland Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal On 26 May 2011, Poland introduced legislation to terminate the prosecution for possession of small amounts of drugs for personal use. The law introduces the possibility when a person has negligible amounts of drugs for personal use and is not a dealer. But this is only theory, in practice it's still illegal. The legislation raised the maximum possible penalty for placing a large number of drugs from 10 to 12 years in prison. However, for possession of large quantities of drugs would result up to 10 years in prison (previously up to 8 years).
Portugal Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal (decriminalized) In 2001, Portugal became the first country in the world to decriminalize the use of all drugs, and started treating drug users as sick people, instead of criminals, although you can be arrested or assigned mandatory rehab if caught several times in possession.
Puerto Rico Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Legal history of cannabis in the United States The Puerto Rican government is considering to decrimalize cannabis for medical use
Romania Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Romania was (before 1990) a leader in hemp fiber, second only to China. However, possession of small quantities of drug preparations is punishable by a small fine of about $150–200 USD. Possession of large amounts may result in 3–6 years of jail time, and sale may result in more than 6 years jail time.
Russia Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal Illegal (decriminalized) Illegal (decriminalized) Possession or transport of up to 6 grams (dry weight) of cannabis or 2 grams of hashish with no sale intent is punishable by fine. Possession or transport of more than this amount is punishable by prison term.

Cultivation of less than 20 cannabis plants is decriminalized (punishable by fine) since 2010. Plant itself is illegal. Cannabis seeds contain no controlled substances and are not regulated.

Saudi Arabia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Use and possession for personal use of any kind of recreational drugs is punishable by imprisonment if caught. Imprisonment for personal use could go up to six months jail time or more. Dealing and smuggling of high amounts of drugs usually result in harsher prison time or even execution, although recently executions are rare. Foreigners who use drugs might be deported.
Serbia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal The Criminal Code of Serbia outlaws possession (article 246a), sale, transport and cultivation (article 246) of all psychoactive substances.
Singapore Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, making it illegal to cultivate, sell or possess.
Slovakia Illegal Illegal Illegal Possession or use of small amounts of Cannabis is punishable by up to three years in prison.
Slovenia Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis cultivation is not illegal for cannabis growers, growing weed with ≤ 0.2 % THC on a ≤ 0.1 ha surface, or ≥ 0.1 ha surface with a govermental permit for cannabis cultivation. There was a proposal of 2012 that would decriminalise medical cannabis, failed with not enough support. The petition for support for medical marijuana decriminalisation for was re-proposed in 2013, succeeded in gaining enough public support for legal cannabis, but the Slovenian government rather re-classified cannabis from Class B to Class A illegal drugs, designated fines for small quantity possetion and declared it "decriminalisation" of medical marijuana in 2014.
Somalia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal
South Africa Illegal Illegal Illegal There is a proposal of 2014 that would decriminalise medical cannabis
South Korea} Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis "is illegal in South Korea.South Koreans can be prosecuted in South Korea for use of cannabis in other countries as well, as happened to a South Korean-American hip hop artist who will "spend eight long months in a South Korean prison" for his cannabis use while in the U.S.
Spain Illegal(decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal Buying or selling any quantity of cannabis is a criminal offence. Possession and consumption in a public place constitutes a misdemeanour and is penalized with a fine and confiscation. Growing the plant on private property for personal use, and consumption by adults in a private space, is legal.
Sri Lanka Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Ayurvedic traditional medicines.
Sweden Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Drug policy of Sweden It is illegal to sell, transfer, purchase, use or possess any quantity of cannabis in Sweden. Social stigmatisation through social rejection and exclusion from the labourmarket and social services are the most common sanctions in matters regarding personal use. The national police runs a "disturb and annoy" program aimed at users supported by the national "zero tolerance" policy. .
Switzerland Illegal(decriminalized) Illegal Illegal Illegal [[Cannabis in Switzerland}}

Cannabis is decriminalized for possession, sale or transport is Illegal but cultivation is legal in a private property only. However, usually only the minimum penalty is imposed for possession and personal use, even for larger amounts. The federal council has committed to implement changes as to decriminalization of personal use and possession already in 2001, and the parliament is currently tasked to tender concrete approaches. As nothing is coming forth on a parliamentary basis, a referendum was launched in 2008.

As of 1 January 2012, the cantons Vaud, Neuchatel, Geneva and Fribourg have allowed the growing and cultivation of up to 4 cannabis plants per person, in an attempt to curb illegal street trafficking, but this cantonal law was unvalidated in October 2012, as federal law must prevail on cantonal law.

Syria Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal civil war, people living in areas controlled by Kurdish separatists have begun growing cannabis as a way of making money to fight poverty.
Republic of China (Taiwan) Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis is a schedule 2 narcotic in the ROC, and possession can result in up to three years imprisonment.
Tunisia Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal
Turkey Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal juridical process. Possessing, purchasing or receiving any illegal drug, including Cannabis, is punishable by 1–2 years in prison; there is also the option of treatment and/or probation for up to three years. If users refuse treatment or do not comply with probation requirements, the courts can decide on sentencing.
United Arab Emirates Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Even the smallest amounts of the drug can lead to a mandatory four-year prison sentence.
United Kingdom Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal Cannabis reclassification in the United Kingdom

Cannabis is a Class B drug (moderate risk) in the UK. Police enforcement actions vary.

United States Washington, Oregon, and Alaska and the cities of Portland, Maine|Portland and South Portland, Maine|South Portland, Maine; decriminalized in 14 states, medicinal legal in 20 states and Guam. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. Legal medicinal sales in several additional states. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation. ) Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. Legal for medicinal patients in several additional states. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) Washington. Medicinal growing is legal in several states as well. All Indian Reservations are allowed to regulate cannabis laws, Laws varies by reservation.) Legality of cannabis by US state

Laws vary by state, Territory, Indian Reservation, and the Federal District. Federal law classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, the same classification as heroin. The United States Supreme Court has ruled in Gonzales v. Raich that the federal government has the power to regulate and criminalize cannabis, even for medical purposes. The United States Department of Justice|Department of Justice recently allowed recognized Indian reservations to regulate marijuana within their reservation.

Ukraine Illegal, possession of quantities of up to 5 grams Illegal Illegal(decriminalized), possession of quantities of up to 5 grams Illegal (decriminalised) up to 10 plants "Aspects of cannabis laws in Ukraine"
Uruguay legal legal legal legal [[Legality of cannabis in Uruguay}}

José Mujica|Jose Mujica has fully legalized any use of Cannabis in Uruguay; law does not specify quantity for "personal amount".As of 10 December 2013, the Chamber of Deputies of Uruguay|House of Representatives and Senate of Uruguay|Senate passed a bill legalizing and regulating the production and sale of the drug. But the president has postponed the implementation to 2015 and parts of the opposition claim that the new law will never be implemented. The new law says that buyers must be 18 or older, residents of Uruguay, and must register with the authorities. Authorities will grow the cannabis that can be sold legal. In August 2014 claimed an opposition presidential candidate that the new law never is going to be applied, it is not workable.

Uzbekistan Illegal Illegal Opiates, cannabis and other plants containing psychotropic substances are illegal.
Venezuela Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal As of 15 September 2010 possession of up to 20 grams of Marijuana or 5 grams of genetically modified Marijuana, if proven not to be for medical or personal consumption, is punishable by 1 to 2 years in prison at judge's discretion. If deemed to be for personal consumption, the user is subject to security measures involving rehabilitation and detoxification procedures. Articulos 131 y 153 de la Ley Organica de Drogas.
Vietnam Illegal Illegal Illegal Illegal
U.S. Virgin Islands Illegal, possession of quantities of up to an ounce Illegal Illegal Illegal United States The governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands approved a bill that decriminalized possesion of marijuana up to an ounce.
Zimbabwe Illegal Illegal
Country/Territory Possession Sale Transport Cultivation Notes

See also

Marijuana

Hemp

Legal and medical status of cannabis

Legality of cannabis

Annual cannabis use by country

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