The Evolution of Cannabis Laws: A Global Perspective

Cannabis laws have evolved dramatically over the past century, with different countries taking vastly different approaches to regulation. In the early 20th century, many nations began to criminalize cannabis, influenced by international treaties and the growing global drug control regime. However, attitudes began to shift in the late 20th century, particularly in Europe and North America, where medical marijuana laws started to gain traction. Today, countries like Canada and Uruguay have fully legalized cannabis, while others, like the Netherlands, have adopted decriminalization models. This global patchwork of laws reflects the complexities of cannabis regulation and the varying cultural, political, and economic factors at play. As more countries move toward legalization, understanding the history of cannabis laws can help inform more effective and equitable policies in the future.