Brazil’s Supreme Court Decriminalizes Cannabis Possession For Personal Use
In a landmark ruling late Tuesday, Brazil’s Supreme Court voted to decriminalize the possession of cannabis for personal use, marking a significant shift in the nation’s drug policy. This decision, which addresses the application of Article 28 of the Drug Law from 2006, aims to differentiate personal use from trafficking and could significantly reduce Brazil’s prison overpopulation.
Supreme Court Concludes Longstanding Decriminalization Debate
The court’s decision concludes a debate that began in 2015 and reflected growing public awareness of the failures of existing drug policies. A majority of the 11-member court supported the move, which does not yet specify the maximum allowable quantity for personal possession or the effective date of the new rule. The Associated Press reported that a resolution is expected as soon as Wednesday.
While selling cannabis will remain illegal, the move is seen as a crucial step toward easing the burden on …