An In-depth Review of Cannabis Laws in Turkey

Monday, 24 July 2023 16:02

In depth Look at Turkey's Cannabis Laws

When it comes to cannabis legislation worldwide, Turkey stands out for its strict and prohibitive laws. From strict sanctions on recreational use to its limited acceptance for certain medical purposes, Turkey's approach towards cannabis is certainly nuanced. This article delves into the specifics of cannabis laws in Turkey, offering insights for those interested in the current situation.

Turkey Cannabis Laws: The Prohibition on Recreational Use

Recreational use of cannabis in Turkey is strictly illegal. This zero-tolerance policy extends to all activities involving cannabis - possession, cultivation, and sale of any amount. These are considered serious state felonies that can lead to severe repercussions, including imprisonment and hefty fines.

Medical and Scientific Use: A Limited Acceptance

Turkey's stance softens somewhat when it comes to medical and scientific use of cannabis. Since 2016, legislation has allowed the use of specific sublingual cannabinoid medications, such as Sativex, with a doctor's prescription. It's worth noting, however, that the use of whole-plant cannabis remains illegal in Turkey, underscoring the controlled nature of its medical cannabis policy.

The country has also authorized the cultivation of marijuana in 19 provinces exclusively for medicinal and scientific purposes. These cultivations are supervised by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock. Even under these circumstances, restrictions apply - growers must destroy the side shoots, leaves, and flowers of the hemp to prevent cannabis production. They can only use the fibers, seeds, and stems.

Industrial Hemp: A Step Forward

Interestingly, Turkey's president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, expressed support for growing industrial hemp in 2019, citing its various benefits for different sectors. This move suggests a potential shift towards acknowledging the wider uses of cannabis-related plants.

Cannabis Consumption: An Underlying Reality

Despite these strict laws, cannabis remains a significant part of illicit drug use in Turkey. According to sewage surveys, it's the most popular illicit drug and the third most consumed psychoactive substance after alcohol and nicotine in Istanbul. Notably, low-income neighborhoods in Istanbul experience higher rates of cannabis consumption, and globally, Istanbul and Adana rank second and third in cannabis consumption among select world cities.

Penalties: A Stern Approach

Turkey enforces stern penalties for any drug consumption, whether for personal use or not. Possession of cannabis can lead to 1-2 years in prison, with the potential for treatment or probation of up to three years. The sale and supply of cannabis carry a sentence of 5-10 years in prison, and production or trafficking offenses come with a minimum of 10 years in prison.

A Strict Stand with Limited Exceptions

Cannabis laws in Turkey are certainly among the stricter ones globally, with heavy penalties for recreational use. Yet, there's a nuanced view when it comes to medicinal, scientific, and industrial applications. Anyone engaging with cannabis in any form in Turkey should be fully aware of these laws to avoid serious legal consequences.

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