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Background. The political debate on cannabis policy is often more based on opinions than on evidence. However, evidence-based knowledge is required to design effective cannabis policy. Method. A review of the scientific literature on cannabis policy and its consequences was conducted, focusing on three issues: (1) the difference between formal policy and actual implementation; (2) the effect of policy on prevalence of cannabis use; and (3) the consequences of cannabis policy for users and society. Results. (1) Local authorities, police departments and regional courts differ in how they implement cannabis policy, and implementation typically deviates considerably from the formal policy; (2) The limited available evidence favors the hypothesis that policy and prevalence of cannabis use are not strongly connected. However, there is hardly any literature focusing on the consequences of cannabis policy as implemented; (3) Although in-depth studies are scarce, cannabis policy seems to have negative side-effects for cannabis arrestees well beyond the direct consequences of their arrest. They have, for example, more difficulties finding a job because they have a criminal record. Conclusions. The evidentiary basis for cannabis policy is rather narrow. The study includes an agenda for further research on cannabis policy.
Table of Contents
Part I
Context of the Study
Chapter One
Introduction
Chapter Two
Research Methodology
Chapter Three
Context of Cannabis Policy
Part II
Results of the Literature Review
Chapter Four
Implementation of Cannabis Policy
Chapter Five
Cannabis Policy and Prevalance
Chapter Six
Cannabis Policy and Social Consequences
Part III
Discussion and Recommendations
Chapter Seven
Discussion and Recommendations
Annex A
Original Analytical Framework
Annex B
Actor Perspectives in Future Research on the Consequences of Different Cannabis Policy Implementation Regime
Research conducted by
The research described in this report was prepared for the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sports by RAND Europe.
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