The pandemic has left us feeling rather low due to various reasons like, stress, job-loss, depression and anxiety. Thismental-health crisis has spiked the usage of marijuana or cannabis throughout the world.
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Luxembourg, the tiny land locked country between Belgium, France and Germany has been getting several reforms in its nation, to improve the quality of life of its people.
Away from the 'black market'
Just last year, in May, Luxembourg had introduced Mobilité Gratuite (Free Mobility). Even amidst the lockdown, it gave pleasing results. Now, the country is on its way to tackle the illegal cannabis trade by nipping it in the bud.
On 22 October, Luxembourg became the first European country and third in the world, after Canada and Uruguay, to completely legalize the growth and usage of marijuana indoors.
This new amendment has come before cannabis being the most commonly used drug, accounting for a significant portion of the illegal market.
Justice minister Sam Tamson said:
We thought we had to act, we have an issue with drugs and cannabis is the drug that is most used and is a large part of the illegal market.
We want to start by allowing people to grow it at home. The idea is that a consumer is not in an illegal situation if he consumes cannabis and that we don't support the whole illegal chain from production to transportation to selling where there is a lot of misery attached.
Tomson added:
We want to do everything we can to get more and more away from the illegal black market.
Trade of cannabis still prohibited
Research finds the boom in the usage of cannabis has primarily taken place due to both, boredom and self-medication.
Cannabis use and transportation in public will remain illegal; however, ingesting or transporting less than three grams will no longer be considered a crime, but rather a misdemeanour.
The fine is also reduced to €25 (£21.15/$29.08) for possession of under three grams, from fines between €251 (£212/$291) and €2,500 (£2,114/$2,908).
In the interim, consumers will be able to purchase seeds online, in stores, or through import, but cannabis trading will remain illegal.
Remember, if these harsh times are making you feel low, do not forget to consult a professional.
