TL;DR
In Peru, cannabis is not entirely illegal. The government decriminalized the personal possession, in limited quantities, in 2017. However, recreational use of Cannabis remains outlawed, while medical usage is permitted, under a controlled and regulated system.
| Recreational Use | Medical Use | |
|---|---|---|
| THC | Illegal | Legal |
| CBD | Illegal | Legal |
Introduction
In a global context witnessing diverse stances towards the legality of cannabis, understanding state-specific cannabis legislation assumes significance not only for lawmakers, users, and potential users but also for clinicians, and researchers. As such, this blog endeavors to delve into the intricacies of the legal situation of cannabis in Peru.
Overview of Cannabis Legislation
Decriminalization is distinguished from legalization as it involves the reduction of penalties for cannabis possession while keeping production and sale illegal. In contrast, legalization allows both possession and sale of cannabis under regulated frameworks.
State-Specific Legal Details
Legal Status
In Peru, cannabis laws were largely relaxed in 2017 to allow for medical use (Government of Peru). Cannabis for recreational use is nevertheless still illegal.
Historical Context
The move towards legalization for medicinal use in 2017 was fueled by protests from parents seeking access to cannabis to treat their children’s epilepsy and other conditions. However, the recreational use of cannabis has been deemed illegal since 1920 (National Biotechnology Information).
Possession and Use
Peru’s Penal Code stipulates that possession up to 8 grams for personal use is not punishable (National Biotechnology Information). The legal age for cannabis usage is 18.
Cultivation and Distribution
Cultivation for personal use remains illegal. However, licensure exists for commercial cultivation, aimed at serving the medical market (Government of Peru).
Enforcement and Penalties
Those found violating these laws could be subjected to punishment ranging from warnings to fines or imprisonment, based on the severity of the violation (Peru’s Judiciary).
Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis is available by prescription for conditions such as epilepsy, pain, and nausea related to chemotherapy (Government of Peru).
Social and Economic Impact
While comprehensive data is limited, some studies suggest the move towards medical legalization has generated positive social and economic outcomes, including improvements in public health and crime rates (JSTOR).
Comparative Analysis
Compared to its South American peers which possess stricter cannabis laws, Peru adopts a more progressive stance, highlighting a shift in Latin American drug policy principles, from punishment to public health.
Future Outlook and Ongoing Debates
Public opinion appears to be gradually shifting towards more liberal cannabis laws, potentially paving the way for further cannabis reforms in the future. However, a strong opposition, particularly from religious and conservative sectors, remains.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while recreational use of Cannabis remains illegal in Peru, medical usage is permitted. The evolving discourse on cannabis and its categorization as a drug reveal how public perception, coupled with medical science, can influence regulation.
