Switzerland is moving toward legalizing recreational cannabis after a parliamentary commission proposed a law for regulated sales. Currently, cannabis is only allowed for medical use or when it contains less than one percent THC.
A recent proposal by the lower house of parliament’s health commission received 14 votes in favor, nine against, and two abstentions. The goal is to provide adults with controlled access to cannabis while addressing illegal consumption. A 2022 survey found that four percent of Swiss residents aged 15 to 64 had used cannabis illegally in the past month. Lawmakers believe that prohibition is ineffective and that a regulated approach is necessary.
If passed, the law would allow Swiss residents over 18 to grow, buy, possess, and use cannabis. However, strict rules would be in place, including a limit of three homegrown plants per person and protections against secondhand smoke exposure. Commercial production would be permitted but under strict quality controls. All packaging would need to be neutral with clear warning labels.
The government plans to control sales through a state monopoly, with cannabis available only at licensed shops. Importantly, all revenue from sales would go toward addiction support, prevention, and harm reduction programs. Additionally, penalties for illegal sales and purchases would become stricter, and driving under the influence would remain strictly prohibited.
Despite this progress, the law is not yet final. It must go through further approval by both houses of parliament, and under Switzerland’s direct democracy system, a public vote may be required.
The Swiss Hemp Interest Group has praised the proposal as a historic moment, but the Swiss People’s Party (SVP) strongly opposes it, arguing that legalization could downplay cannabis risks. However, the push for a legal cannabis market in Switzerland continues, with a strong focus on public health and safety.
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