Adults only (18+)

Historical Roots of Prohibition

Cannabis was not always illegal. In fact, for centuries it was widely grown for its industrial and medicinal value. The move to ban it began in the early 20th century, influenced by a combination of moral panic, racial prejudice, and political agendas. In the United States, cannabis was associated with marginalised groups and immigrants, particularly during a period of social upheaval. Anti-cannabis campaigns painted the plant as a dangerous drug linked to crime and insanity, despite limited scientific evidence to support those claims. These narratives found traction internationally, setting the stage for prohibition in many countries, including those in Europe and the Commonwealth.

Global Treaties and International Influence

One of the main reasons cannabis remains illegal in many nations is the influence of international drug treaties. The United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, signed in 1961, classified cannabis as a controlled substance with no recognised medical use. Countries that signed the treaty were obliged to restrict its production and use. This global agreement reinforced national prohibitions and limited scientific research into cannabis. While amendments have been made to the classification in recent years, the treaty framework still underpins cannabis laws in many countries.

Public Health and Moral Concerns

Many governments cite public health concerns as a reason for keeping cannabis illegal. Authorities worry about potential links to mental health issues, especially psychosis in vulnerable individuals. There are also fears about dependency, impaired driving, and long-term cognitive effects, particularly among young people. These concerns, while valid in certain contexts, are often amplified by moral arguments rooted in outdated social values. In some societies, cannabis use is still viewed as deviant or irresponsible, reinforcing the idea that prohibition serves as a deterrent.

Political Resistance to Reform

Despite growing evidence supporting the regulation and medicinal use of cannabis, political resistance remains strong in some regions. For many governments, drug policy is tied to broader narratives about law and order. Decriminalisation or legalisation is sometimes seen as politically risky, especially in areas where conservative or traditional values dominate. Changing the law can also be administratively complex, requiring new regulatory frameworks, public health campaigns and education efforts. As a result, many policymakers adopt a cautious or slow approach, even as public opinion shifts in favour of reform.

Media and Social Stigma

For decades, media coverage of cannabis focused on its dangers, often exaggerating its links to violence, laziness, and moral decline. These portrayals influenced generations of people and contributed to widespread stigma. Even today, cannabis users are often stereotyped in ways that do not reflect the diverse range of people who consume it for medicinal or recreational reasons. This stigma makes it harder for politicians and the public to view cannabis through a rational, evidence-based lens, further entrenching its illegal status.

Changing Views and the Future of Cannabis Policy

In recent years, many countries and regions have begun to rethink their approach to cannabis. Scientific research has revealed a range of potential therapeutic uses for the plant, from managing chronic pain to alleviating symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Countries like Canada, Germany, and several US states have introduced regulated markets for recreational and medicinal use. These developments challenge the idea that prohibition is the only or best option. However, full legalisation still faces hurdles in countries with longstanding opposition or strict international treaty obligations.

Summary

Cannabis remains illegal in many countries due to a complex mix of historical fear campaigns, global treaties, public health concerns, political caution, and social stigma. The plant was once widely accepted but became criminalised through moral and racial anxieties, reinforced by international agreements and sensational media narratives. While science and public attitudes are evolving, the legacy of prohibition continues to shape cannabis laws today. Legal reform is happening, but slowly and unevenly across the world.