Marijuana in Italy: "Legalisation is the Only Way to End the Illegal Market, Now in the Mafia's Hands"

On the international scene there is a growing trend towards more liberal legislation with reference to marijuana cultivation and consumption. The countries that have already taken this route are reaping the benefits, and those who have not are taking note of their experiences.

One of the arguments most often wielded by those who argue in favour of the legalisation of cannabis involves its consequences in economic terms. The application of taxes on its sale means the generation of large profits, which flow into the State's coffers. In addition to this benefit, legalisation in Italy would be the only way to quash the illegal market for marijuana, dominated by mafias and criminal organizations.

So says Enrico Rossi, president of the region of Tuscany. He made these statements after the country's National Anti-Mafia Directorate announced that its studies indicate that Italians consume some 3 million kilos of marijuana every year. Cannabis leads the black market for narcotics, accounting for half the total.

Rossi also seized the opportunity to express his hope that a bill calling for the legalisation of marijuana will be approved. Although it is backed by more than 300 representatives, it has been tied up in Parliament since it was introduced in 2015.

The region over which Rossi presides ranks third in Italy in marijuana seizures, after Sicily and Calabria. Most of the confiscations by security forces in Tuscany are made in Massa and Prato.

The president of the region also pointed out the inconsistencies involved in outlawing marijuana, stating that, as Italy is one of the countries where it is easiest to find, it makes no sense to continue to legally pursue its consumption.

While the impact of Rossi's statements remains to be seen in the country, it can be said that Italy is on the right track. More and more legislators publicly support the legalisation of marijuana, and increasingly appreciate the benefits it generates, not only in terms of increased personal freedom for citizens, but also for State institutions too.