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A worker inspects cannabis leaves at the Rak Jang cannabis field, one of the companies licensed to grow medical cannabis, in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. PHOTO/Reuters
JAKARTA – Marijuana has become a political issue in many countries. It relates to legalization aimed at political and economic interests.
In Europe, there are already many countries that have legalized marijuana, both for therapeutic or health purposes and for recreational or fun purposes. However, for starters in legalizing marijuana, generally a country’s government will prioritize health matters rather than recreation.
Moreover, cannabis is a multi-billion dollar industry. The legalization of cannabis will bring huge benefits to the government. Not surprisingly, many industries have lobbied for the legalization of marijuana. “The industry is intensively lobbying governments in various countries to legalize cannabis,” said Olivia Naugle, a policy analyst with the Marijuana Policy Project.
Also Read: Voters in 5 US States Will Decide on Marijuana Legalization
1. THAILAND
Photo/Reuters
Efforts to legalize cannabis in Thailand have been ongoing since last year. Not only consuming, but Thailand allows planting to distribute it. However, the legalization of cannabis in Thailand is predicted to fail because parliament will be dissolved on May 14, 2023.
The prime minister candidate from the Move Forward Party, Pita Limjaroenrat, was very open about cannabis cultivation and use. “We support cannabis for treatment, not for fun,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Pheu Thai Party, which has ambitions to form a government, supports the legalization of cannabis in Thailand. “The Pheu Thai Party fully supports the legalization of cannabis,” said Srettha Thavisi, one of Pheu Thai’s politicians. He said the legalization of marijuana aims to support medical treatment.
Also Read: Reasons for MK Rejecting Marijuana Legalization for Medical
