For centuries, Western colonial powers ruled over vast territories, imposing their education, religion, and cultural habits on those they deemed inferior. They forced their norms upon the world, shaping economies and societies in their image. Yet, in an ironic twist, a single plant—bhaang (cannabis)—exposed their hypocrisy. While alcohol, a far more addictive and damaging substance, remained a celebrated part of their culture, cannabis, a mild and medicinal plant, was demonized and banned. Why? Because it made their legs shiver.
The Great Cannabis Confusion: A Plant That Divides Nations
The global stance on cannabis remains deeply divided, with nations legalizing, restricting, and then reversing their decisions—highlighting the deep confusion surrounding the plant.
Thailand, once a trailblazer in cannabis reform, decriminalized marijuana in 2022, opening its doors to a booming cannabis industry. The move was hailed as a progressive step, attracting tourism and investment. However, within months, concerns over uncontrolled usage led the Thai government to backtrack, introducing new restrictions and pledging to reclassify cannabis as a regulated substance. This abrupt U-turn left businesses and consumers in limbo, uncertain about the future of the industry.
In the United States, a patchwork of laws exists—some states have fully legalized cannabis for recreational and medical use, while others maintain strict bans. Meanwhile, at the federal level, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I drug, on par with heroin, despite overwhelming evidence of its medicinal benefits.
Italy’s Attempt to Ban Industrial Hemp: A Step Backward?
Italy is the latest example of this global confusion over cannabis regulation. The government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has proposed classifying hemp flowers as narcotics, even though their THC content remains within the EU’s legal limits.
Critics argue that this move is politically motivated rather than scientifically justified. Flavio Tosi, an MEP from Forza Italia, warned that banning hemp would devastate Italy’s hemp industry, shutting down 3,000 businesses and leaving 15,000 workers jobless. Others fear that such a ban would push consumers toward unregulated, illegal markets, contradicting the very purpose of the prohibition.
The Never-Ending War on Cannabis: What’s the Real Fear?
Why does cannabis continue to face such inconsistent policies worldwide? Why are governments hesitant to embrace a plant with medicinal benefits, economic potential, and fewer risks than alcohol?
The answer may lie in control and economic interests rather than genuine public health concerns. While alcohol and tobacco industries remain deeply embedded in global economies, cannabis threatens existing power structures. In some cases, its criminalization benefits the private prison industry, while in others, it disrupts pharmaceutical monopolies.
Until governments treat cannabis with the same rational approach as alcohol, the world will remain trapped in a cycle of legalization, restriction, and prohibition—a never-ending war against a plant that refuses to be forgotten
