Tilray Brands - European Cannabis UpdateTilray Brands Changing the Cannabis Mindset in the EU and Beyond
There is here is an opportunity for cannabis-based businesses to
serve consumers — as long as we can change the cannabis mindset.
CANNABIS IS CONTINUING its global growth. Similar to the U.S., the European Union is implementing a patchwork of legalization measures, with several countries taking steps to expand the legalization of cannabis for medical and/or adult-use purposes. As CEO and Co-founder of a cannabis company in Germany, I have watched the process of legalization grow from talks to proposals. While there is opportunity for my own company, there is also room for other cannabis-based businesses to serve consumers — as long as we can change the cannabis mindset.
In Germany, Health Minister Karl Lauterbach announced a two-pillar, scaled-down approach to adult-use cannabis legalization, which included the introduction of cannabis clubs that will be able to cultivate and distribute cannabis to adult members. Meanwhile, Switzerland has recently launched a pilot program to assess the health effects of regulating cannabis by allowing adult-use sales in Basel and soon Zurich, Geneva and Lausanne. The Netherlands, despite having coffee shops that offer cannabis for several decades, will launch its first legal cannabis cultivation pilot program by the end of 2023. Luxembourg decriminalizes cannabis and is about launching pilot projects. Malta has already established the legal process for non-profit cannabis clubs. The Czech Republic seeks to legalize the whole value chain.
Recently, German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach’s draft rules were leaked to a German Press Agency and included plans to declassify cannabis as a non-narcotic. Such actions will increase access for patients as well as ease regulations for prescribing doctors and business operators in the space.
With cannabis becoming more widely accepted for its medicinal and wellness potential, it’s important that societal views on cannabis adapt and progress as well. This starts with destigmatizing cannabis, its users and the culture surrounding the plant.
Combat Cannabis Stereotypes and Misconceptions
The use of medical cannabis is supported by a growing body of scientific research, which has shown that it can be effective for many symptoms, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression and epilepsy. Despite its various wellness benefits, there continue to be negative stigmas surrounding the use of medical cannabis.
A recent European Journal of Criminology study compared seven countries in the EU that varied in levels of cannabis criminalization and found that in countries with more punitive laws, the stigmas surrounding the plant were more intense. Within places where negative stigmas were more concentrated, cannabis users were more likely to experience judgments from friends and family members. These communities were also more likely to believe in outdated stereotypes, like all cannabis users are lazy, dangerous, deviant or unintelligent. These stereotypes not only harm the reputation of medical cannabis users but also can make it difficult for patients to access it.
It’s important to showcase the range of cannabis users — which vary in age, gender, socioeconomic status, wellness needs and product preferences. By sharing personal experiences and discussing the benefits and applications of cannabis, societies can break down the barriers that prevent people from feeling comfortable with it. By acknowledging the growing use of cannabis among diverse populations and its wellness benefits, communities can help reduce stigma and create a safe and healthier environment.
Use Education to Empower Physicians, Consumers and Regulators
To help reduce the stigma surrounding cannabis, it’s important to educate physicians, consumers and lawmakers about the plant’s reported wellness benefits and medicinal properties. Some of the most common uses of cannabis are to alleviate symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety and depression. It can also aid in relaxation and promote a sense of well-being.
https://www.rollingstone.com/culture-council/articles/changing-the-cannabis-mindset-the-eu-and-beyond-1234794782/