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.
