Inatsisartut is gathered for spring gatheringwhere the agenda includes, among other things, a proposal for the decriminalization of cannabis.
Point 119 of Inatsisartut’s spring assembly deals with the decriminalization of cannabis. The proposer is Atassut’s chairman Aqqalu C. Jerimiassen, and the proposal must be first considered on Wednesday 6 May.
Inatsisartut is gathered for spring gatheringwhere the agenda includes, among other things, a proposal for the decriminalization of cannabis.
Point 119 of Inatsisartut’s spring assembly deals with the decriminalization of cannabis. The proposer is Atassut’s chairman Aqqalu C. Jerimiassen, and the proposal must be first considered on Wednesday 6 May.
Today, cannabis is illegal, while the sale of CBD products with up to 0.2 percent THC has been allowed with approval since 2023. At the same time, the price of hashish is high – between 500 and 1,000 kroner per gram according to Kristeligt Dagblad.
How do the citizens of Nuuk relate to the issue?
Sermitsiaq has been on the streets in Nuuk to take the temperature of citizens’ attitudes about the bill.
It can reduce the black market
William Kriegel takes a nuanced look at the debate about cannabis and points to both the challenges of consumption and the consequences of the current ban.
– I see the question from two sides. On the one hand, cannabis is a real problem, and its use should in many cases be considered abuse. It is clear that cannabis can have serious consequences for the individual and for society.
– On the other hand, the ban also creates challenges. The illegal market involves imports through criminal channels, where cannabis is sold at high prices and where some earn significant sums from the illegal trade. At the same time, authorities such as the police, courts and customs spend a lot of resources on enforcing the law, resources that are ultimately paid for by society.
He points to both the possible benefits of decriminalization and the concerns linked to changes in consumption and regulation.
– Decriminalisation, for example through a regulated and controlled sales scheme, can potentially reduce the black market and thus also illegal imports. It can free up resources in the legal system and give the opportunity to prioritize other societal tasks. However, it is crucial that any sale takes place under strict conditions.
– There is concern that consumption will increase with decriminalisation. However, experience from other countries does not point unequivocally in that direction, just as there are no clear signs that cannabis acts as a gateway to harder drugs.
Kriegel concludes with a clear position on the issue and emphasizes that, in his opinion, decriminalization should take place under a controlled framework, without necessarily leading to a major consumption problem.
– Overall, I believe that cannabis should be decriminalized, but under controlled conditions. I do not believe that the problem will necessarily grow as a result of such a change.
It will increase insecurity
Anita Phipps expresses skepticism towards the decriminalization of cannabis and at the same time points out that the widespread consumption in Nuuk plays into her assessment of whether a change in the legislation will create increased insecurity.
– I am not comfortable with the decriminalization of cannabis. But this suggests that there are a lot of people in Nuuk who use cannabis. If decriminalization will create insecurity, it should remain illegal.
Anita Phipps’ concern is particularly directed at the possible consequences for children and young people, who are considered to be the most vulnerable group.
– I am thinking of children and young people in particular. It is not healthy for them and can affect their development and thinking. I don’t know how it affects adults to the same degree.
No worries
Aqqaluk Nielsen is positive about the decriminalization of cannabis and points out, among other things, that some patients may have a medical need that should be included in the assessment.
– I think that a decriminalization of cannabis is perfectly fine. There are people who need cannabis because of their illness. I therefore have no concerns in relation to the decriminalization of cannabis.
