Scientific evaluation of the experimental scheme for legal access to cannabis for non-medical purposes

As part of the experimental scheme for legal access to cannabis for non-medical purposes, announced on April 28, 2023, a scientific evaluation has been set up to analyze the impact of this experimental scheme on consumption habits and public health.

Data collection was carried out in 2023 and analyzed by the Luxembourg Focal Point of the European Union Agency on Drugs (PFLAD) of the Health Directorate. In this context, two factsheets were published by the PFLAD. The aim of the survey is twofold:

• Improve the quality of available data on cannabis consumption, acquisition and cultivation habits in Luxembourg.
• To provide a sound scientific basis to guide future policy decisions on the regulation of cannabis for non-medical purposes.

Key results of the study

The survey provides an initial, more targeted and comprehensive overview of cannabis-related behavior and perceptions in Luxembourg. The initial results, summarized in two factsheets, include:

• Methods of acquisition, to understand how and where users obtain cannabis, particularly since changes in the legal framework.
• Home cultivation for non-medical purposes, to analyze the impact of self-cultivation regulations on users’ consumption practices and habits.
• Mental health status and psychological distress, examining possible links between cannabis use and psychological well-being.
• Cannabis prevalence rates, to assess how many people use this substance and how often.
• Beliefs, perceived advantages and disadvantages of consumption, to better understand how cannabis is perceived by users and the general public.
• Motivations and impact of use on quality of life, assessing the influence of cannabis on users’ daily lives.
• Addiction risks to identify and assess risk behaviors and their public health implications.

A science-based approach and regulations

The evaluation will continue with a post-execution analysis scheduled for 2026, to measure the evolution of the indicators.
Martine Deprez, Minister of Health and Social Security, underlines the importance of this scientific approach: “Legal access to cannabis for non-medical purposes is an experimental project that we are following closely. Thanks to this rigorous, ongoing evaluation, we have a scientific basis that will enable us to adapt our approach if necessary, based on concrete results. Our priority is to ensure a balanced policy, based on objective data, to guarantee both the protection of public health and effective regulation.”

This approach guarantees informed decision-making and policy-making, guided by objective data, and ensures that the regulation of cannabis in Luxembourg is subject to ongoing evaluation.

For more information: The Luxembourg focal point of the European Union Drugs Agency PFLAD