TL;DR
In Paraguay, the Cannabis Regulations are conspicuous for their rigorous position against the recreational use of the plant. Both THC and CBD products are illegal to utilize recreationally. Medical use of cannabis is permitted for CBD with a prescription but THC has no medical application under Paraguayan law.
| Recreational Use | Medical Use | |
|---|---|---|
| THC | Illegal | Not applicable |
| CBD | Illegal | Legal (with prescription) |
Introduction
As the globe veers towards decriminalization and legalization, Paraguay remains firm on its prohibition stance, particularly against the recreational use of Cannabis. It is pertinent at this juncture to understand the intricacies of the cannabis legislation and how it impacts the Paraguayan society.
Overview of Cannabis Legislation
Legalization is the process of removing legal prohibitions against something which is currently not legal. Decriminalization means it would remain illegal, but the legal system would not prosecute a person for possession under a specified amount. As a term of legal art, ‘recreational use’ refers to the use of a drug for enjoyment, especially when such use is occasional and results in little or no harm to others and ‘medical use’ usually pertains to the licensed use of drugs prescribed by a medical professional. Conversely, Paraguay continues to stand firm in its consistency; cannabis use is predominantly prohibited, except for limited medical contexts.
State-Specific Legal Details
The specifics of Paraguay’s Cannabis laws can be broken down primarily into Medical and Recreational Use, with Medical use being further segmented into THC and CBD based derivatives.
Legal Status
Cannabis, for all intents and purposes, remains illegal in Paraguay. Legal exceptions exist only for medical use of CBD with a prescription. Source: Paraguayan Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare.
Historical Context
Paraguay has consistently maintained a stringent opposition to Cannabis use. However, in 2007 a bill allowing for the use of cannabis for medical purposes was passed into law.
Possession and Use
There is no decriminalization or tolerated personal use in Paraguay. Possession of Cannabis is considered unlawful and is subjected to penalties by law.
Cultivation and Distribution
Cultivation of cannabis regardless of the purpose is considered strictly illegal in Paraguay.
Enforcement and Penalties
Penalties for violating cannabis laws in Paraguay range from fines to imprisonment depending upon the extent of the violation.
Medical Cannabis
CBD-based derivatives prescribed by registered doctors are legal for use as per 2007 legislation.
Social and Economic Impact
Despite remaining one of the largest producers of Cannabis in South America, Paraguay has not availed of the entailing economic benefits of legalization or decriminalization.
Comparative Analysis
Compared to other nations such as Uruguay and Colombia, Paraguay lags both in terms of decriminalization and legalization of Cannabis.
Future Outlook and Ongoing Debates
Despite a global trend towards legalization and decriminalization, Paraguay remains unyielding in its policies against Cannabis. There are no known legislative changes foreseen or public debate on the matter.
Conclusion
In Paraguay, the use of Cannabis remains tightly controlled. The nation remains resolute in its policies despite a global trend towards loosening controls on Cannabis use.
