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Legal status of cannabis (recreational use)

What this indicator measures

Shows what the law says about possessing cannabis for non-medical personal use: prohibited, prohibited but rarely prosecuted, decriminalized (no more criminal prosecution for small amounts) or legalized.

How to read this?

“Decriminalized” means that small amounts no longer lead to criminal prosecution, without sale being legal as a result.

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194countries with data
2026data year(s)

In brief

Legal status of cannabis (recreational use): 194 countries and territories covered. Breakdown: Prohibited : 144 ; Prohibited but rarely prosecuted : 16 ; Decriminalized : 26 ; Legalized : 8.

Why this indicator matters

Cannabis is one of the most widely used drugs, and laws vary a great deal. Comparing their status helps to understand the different public policies: prohibition, tolerance, decriminalization or regulated sale.

What makes this indicator vary

Laws reflect public health choices, criminal justice policy and international commitments. They change through reforms, referendums or court decisions, and some federal states let their constituent entities decide.

Reading precautions

The status describes possession for non-medical personal use, not medical use or sale. “Prohibited but rarely prosecuted” depends on the practice of the authorities. Laws change, and the source may lag behind.

Legal status of cannabis (recreational use)

Prohibited (144)

Prohibited but rarely prosecuted (16)

Decriminalized (26)

Legalized (8)

Frequently asked questions

Where does the "Legal status of cannabis (recreational use)" data come from?

It comes from Wikipédia, « Legality of cannabis ». Site last updated: November 8, 2026. Each country is shown with the year of its most recent value.

What is the difference between decriminalized and legalized?

Decriminalized means that possessing small amounts no longer leads to criminal prosecution, but sale remains prohibited. Legalized means that use is allowed and, often, regulated by law.

What does “Prohibited but rarely prosecuted” mean?

The law prohibits cannabis, but the authorities rarely prosecute personal use. It is a de facto tolerance, which does not change the law and can end at any time.

Source and update

Source : Wikipédia, « Legality of cannabis ». Site last updated: November 8, 2026.

Indicators in the same category : Justice and security