Spain: Barcelona City Council closes dozens of cannabis clubs

Barcelona City Council began a strong crackdown on the city's cannabis clubs, ordering the closure of around thirty establishments. The decision is part of a wider campaign that aims to close all establishments of this type in the Catalan capital. These measures represent a significant change in the city's approach to cannabis consumption, interestingly in the same week that the Germany authorized its first social club. 

The beginning of the end for cannabis clubs in Barcelona

The vice-president of the Chamber and councilor for Security, Albert Batlle, had already expressed his intention to close more than 200 cannabis clubs, which for more than a decade were fundamental access points for users of the plant. In a statement made at the end of 2023, Batlle highlighted the need to carry out the closures “with legal certainty, rigor and without haste”, making clear the city's commitment to this initiative.

Increased surveillance and inspections

Following Batlle's announcement, Barcelona's Guardia Urbana launched a vast inspection operation that involved rigorous control of around fifty clubs, including placing surveillance agents around these locations. Agents questioned members about their activities at the clubs, with the aim of determining whether cannabis was being purchased or consumed on the premises and whether non-residents were gaining access.

Legal procedures and potential outcomes of termination

The notices issued to clubs give them ten days to submit their reports. Depending on the results, the closures could be temporary, lasting from six months to two years, or permanent. Municipal officials have stated that ongoing inspections will ensure compliance with regulations, suggesting that the future of cannabis clubs in Barcelona appears increasingly uncertain.

Lack of legal protections

The 2021 Supreme Court ruling that invalidated regulations established by the City Council in 2016 eliminated the last legal protections for these clubs. The annulled regulations had established conditions such as the required distance from schools and other facilities, access restrictions and ventilation standards. Following the decision, the City Council reminded clubs that they could only participate in educational and awareness-raising activities related to cannabis and not its distribution or use.

Despite legal setbacks, many cannabis clubs continued to operate as before, although some restricted access to cannabis. The City Council's recent inspections are part of the renewed effort to close these sites. Organizations such as CATFAC, which represents numerous cannabis associations, argue that criminalizing these clubs will not solve the underlying problems.

Controversy and opposition

Critics of the crackdown argue that this decision unfairly targets all cannabis clubs, including those with a history of cooperating with authorities and engaging in harm reduction programs. Some clubs were forced to close their doors despite having no illegal substances on their premises, highlighting the controversial nature of the measures. For example, a club was forced to close despite only having CBD, a non-psychotropic substance.

Economic and social impact

The economic impact on the city and the livelihoods of those involved in these clubs is significant. A club administrator cited substantial contributions to taxes and employment, expressing frustration that the city's actions could drive cannabis sales back to illegal channels.

The closure of Barcelona's cannabis clubs stands in stark contrast to their international reputation and the regulatory approaches adopted by countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Malta and the Czech Republic. Earlier this year, hundreds of academics and NGOs from 53 countries urged Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni to reconsider the city's position, highlighting the global shift towards more progressive drug policies.

Defense of Social Cannabis Clubs

Advocates argue that cannabis social clubs prioritize human rights and public health over criminalization, providing a safer alternative to the illegal market. They highlight the importance of these places in promoting collective consumption and reducing associated risks.

Barcelona City Council's decision to crack down on cannabis clubs marks a significant change in the city's drug policy, with far-reaching implications for the local cannabis community and the wider debate over cannabis regulation. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these closures will impact the city's approach to substance use and its alignment with global trends in cannabis policy.

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João Xabregas

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With a professional background in CAD technical drawing (2D and 3D), João Xabregas is an activist and advocate for all uses and applications of cannabis. He discovered and entered the world of cannabis during his youth, where he developed a special interest in the cultivation of the plant, which led him on a journey of self-learning through the world of cannabis that continues to this day. His adventures linked to cannabis cultivation began with the same goal as many others: to be able to guarantee the quality and eliminate any possible risks to his health of what he consumed, as well as to avoid any type of dependence on the illicit market. However, he quickly began to view the world of cannabis and everything related to it with a very different perspective. He admits the enormous passion he has for the most persecuted plant in the world and about which he is always willing to write and have a good conversation.

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