5 countries with strict marijuana laws

The outlook on cannabis changes every year as new countries legalize or decriminalize the plant. Large regions in North America, South America, Africa, Australia, and Europe have decriminalized or permitted the recreational or medicinal use of marijuana. Although much progress has been made, there is still much to be done. Many countries continue to distrust marijuana and can punish people with jail for simple things like possession.

Whether you’re planning a trip there or just curious about other countries’ attitudes towards cannabis, here are 5 countries with strict marijuana laws:

Japan

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Cannabis possession is still illegal in Japan. Use and possession is punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine. If the plant is grown, sold or transported, the offense is punished with 7 to 10 years. Although CBD is allowed, Japan’s strict cannabis laws prevent proponents from banding together and finding solutions that could legalize or decriminalize the drug in the future.

Turkey

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Turkey has a strict drug policy where almost all drugs are illegal. Enabling the sale of drugs, selling them, or using them for personal use is considered a criminal offense and can be punished with 2 to 5 years in prison.

The saviour

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Recreational and medical marijuana is illegal in El Salvador, largely due to the fact that it is one of the most conservative countries in South America. The country also has a charged history of drug trafficking, which can hurt local prospects. Although there have been several decriminalization initiatives in the past, support for cannabis reform remains very low.

Saudi Arabia

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While Saudi Arabia is more lenient with visitors, the country is still pretty strict with its drug policy. In the country, drug offenses are considered an insult to God. Cannabis use and dissemination can result in imprisonment from a few months to 10 years, depending on the size of the crime and whether or not the person is caught for the first time.

Philippines

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Cannabis is listed as a dangerous drug in the Philippines. This means that consuming, growing, selling, or simply owning it can result in imprisonment and fines. The law specifically bans all forms of cannabis, making the Philippines one of the toughest countries in terms of cannabis laws.