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France Tops Europe in Cannabis Use Despite Strict Laws

France leads Europe in cannabis consumption but maintains one of the continent’s strictest drug policies, spending €570M annually on enforcement with limited success. Legalization could generate €2.8B in tax revenue, create 40,000–80,000 jobs, and reduce gang violence. Inspired by Germany and Portugal, France has an opportunity to redefine European drug policy for economic and social benefits.

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Cannabis is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances in the world, and Europe is no exception. European countries have taken different approaches to legalizing and decriminalizing it. However, the question of which country uses it the most continues to stir emotions and provoke debate. In this article, we examine why France tops the list, and the potential consequences of changing drug policy.

France leads in cannabis consumption in Europe

According to data from the European Drug Control Agency , France ranks first in Europe for adult cannabis consumption. However, the high levels of use contrast with one of the continent’s most restrictive cannabis legal systems. For example, the legalization of medical cannabis is still in an experimental phase.

Comparing France to other countries such as the Netherlands, Germany or Luxembourg, a picture emerges of a country that pursues cannabis users on a large scale but is unable to curb high levels of consumption.

France spends around €570 million annually enforcing its cannabis-related drug laws. Despite this spending, the number of users remains the highest in Europe. What’s more, the illegal cannabis trade fuels gang violence, which leads to numerous social problems.

Drug gangs generate huge revenues, and battles for control of the market often result in casualties among the local population. Cases such as the smuggling-related killings in Marseille are an example of the social costs of current policies.

Potential benefits of legalizing cannabis in France

Experts like Emmanuelle Auriol of the Toulouse School of Economics point out that legalization could bring huge economic benefits. Here are some of them:

Tax revenues: It is estimated that legalization could generate up to €2.8 billion per year in taxes.
Job creation: A legal cannabis market could create 40,000 to 80,000 new jobs.
Savings: Reduction in law enforcement and litigation costs.

France could learn from other European countries, such as Germany and Portugal. Germany has introduced a non-profit sales model, which reduces the risks associated with excessive THC levels . Portugal, thanks to decriminalization, has seen a decrease in overdoses and a significant decrease in drug-related crime.

France has the potential to play a key role in redefining European drug policy. The introduction of a regulated cannabis market could reduce violence and crime while supporting the economy.

Health and social consequences

Arguments for legalization:

Better regulation: Legalization allows control over product quality, reducing health risks.
Education: Users can be better informed about potential threats.
Health concerns:

Use disorders: Increased consumption could lead to more cases of addiction.
Impact on youth: The availability of cannabis could increase its use among youth if appropriate regulations are not implemented.

France faces a major choice: continue with its costly drug policy or make a bold move to legalize and regulate cannabis. Examples from other countries show that reforms can bring social and economic benefits.

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(Featured image by Leonard Cotte via Unsplash)

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First published in Fakty Konopne. A third-party contributor translated and adapted the article from the original. In case of discrepancy, the original will prevail.

Although we made reasonable efforts to provide accurate translations, some parts may be incorrect. Born2Invest assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions or ambiguities in the translations provided on this website. Any person or entity relying on translated content does so at their own risk. Born2Invest is not responsible for losses caused by such reliance on the accuracy or reliability of translated information. If you wish to report an error or inaccuracy in the translation, we encourage you to contact us

Arturo Garcia started out as a political writer for a local newspaper in Peru, before covering big-league sports for national broadsheets. Eventually he began writing about innovative tech and business trends, which let him travel all over North and South America. Currently he is exploring the world of Bitcoin and cannabis, two hot commodities which he believes are poised to change history.