Colombia: Legalization of recreational cannabis is just one debate away from becoming a reality

The First Committee of the Senate of Colombia approved the regulation of cannabis for adult use, in what was its seventh debate, with a favorable vote: 15 votes in favor and 5 against. The project is now facing the last debate in the Senate plenary. The constitutional reform must be approved by the 20th of June, the end date of the first legislature of 2023. 

This approval represents an important step towards the legalization of the adult use of cannabis and the project will now proceed to its final debate, in the plenary of the Colombian Senate.

The constitutional reform must be approved by the next 20th of June, which is the end date of the first legislature of 2023. Liberal Party leader and former president César Gaviria, called on his bench to support the initiative.

The regulation of adult cannabis use in Colombia has generated intense debates and discussions throughout the country. Advocates argue that legalization will bring benefits, both for public health and the economy, in addition to strengthening the fight against drug trafficking. Opponents, on the other hand, express concerns about possible negative consequences, such as increased consumption among young people and lack of control over quality, as well as access to the substance.

The approval of this legislation by the Colombian Senate will pave the way for the creation of a regulated cannabis market in the country, allowing the controlled sale and use of the substance by adults.