Legalization and Decriminalization of Cannabis Use in Iran: A Public Health Law Perspective

Cannabis is the most widely abused and trafficked illicit substance globally, with ۲۱۹ million users as of ۲۰۲۱. In Iran, although cannabis use is relatively low compared to other countries, it has been increasing over the past two decades, posing a significant public health concern. Numerous studies and surveys indicate a high prevalence of cannabis use in Iran, particularly among young adults and adolescents. Despite its potential therapeutic benefits, the unregulated use of cannabis carries various public health risks, including addiction, cognitive impairments, depression, psychosis and schizophrenia, particularly among adolescents, as their brains are still developing. Furthermore, the presence of adulterated cannabis in the absence of a regulated market poses significant threats. The Iranian legal system adopts a zero-tolerance approach towards drug offenses, strictly prohibiting the possession, cultivation, transportation, and sale of cannabis under the Law on Combating Narcotic Drugs, imposing severe legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and, in some cases, the death penalty. The current legal framework, however, has failed to deter cannabis use or reduce its prevalence. Meanwhile, there is a global trend towards cannabis policy liberalization and commercialization, with countries like Uruguay, Canada, and select US states legalizing recreational cannabis. The existing literature suggests that cannabis legalization has generally yielded benefits, including decreases in crime rates, drug-related arrests, and improvements in crime clearance rates. Drawing upon international experiences and insights from multiple case studies, this research recommends shifting the focus from punitive measures to decriminalization and potentially even full legalization of cannabis in Iran. The study proposes a comprehensive public health approach to cannabis regulation, emphasizing the need for clear regulatory frameworks, public health education initiatives, prevention and intervention programs, and monitoring to address post-legalization challenges, including potential gateway effects. It calls upon policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to collaborate in generating and tailoring evidence-based cannabis policies that are suitable for Iran's unique social, cultural, and legal context.

Keywords:

Cannabis Policy , Public Health , Drug Decriminalization , Marijuana Legalization , Juvenile Drug Use , Iran