Switzerland Advances Plan to Legalize Recreational Cannabis Under Government Regulation

LOS ANGELES- Switzerland is progressing toward the legalization of recreational cannabis through a framework emphasizing strict government oversight. On February 14, 2025, the National Council’s Social Security and Public Health Committee (CSSS-N) approved a preliminary draft of federal legislation aimed at regulating non-medical cannabis use.

The proposed legislation seeks to permit adults aged 18 and over to cultivate, purchase, possess, and consume cannabis, with specific measures to prevent passive smoking. The plan includes provisions allowing individuals to grow up to three female cannabis plants for personal use, while establishing maximum possession limits for both private and public settings. The sale and distribution of cannabis to minors would remain strictly prohibited.

This initiative aligns with Switzerland’s ongoing pilot trials, which have been assessing the controlled distribution of recreational cannabis since 2022. These trials aim to gather data on the health and social impacts of regulated cannabis access.

The draft legislation emphasizes a public health approach, aiming to regulate the cultivation, manufacture, and trade of cannabis without promoting its consumption. This strategy mirrors models implemented in countries like Canada, focusing on harm reduction and consumer safety.

As the legislative process continues, the proposal will undergo further deliberation in the Swiss Federal Assembly. If enacted, Switzerland would join a growing list of nations adopting regulated frameworks for recreational cannabis use, reflecting evolving perspectives on drug policy and public health.