In 2023, drug policy reform took center stage across various countries worldwide, with significant developments in marijuana legalization efforts. From Europe to South America, several nations achieved milestones in advancing drug policy reform, although setbacks were also experienced in certain cases.

Germany emerged as a frontrunner in becoming the largest economy in the European Union to legalize marijuana for adults. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach unveiled an updated legalization plan in April, distributing the legislative text to cabinet officials in May. The proposed changes would stagger the implementation of the policy, allowing for the legalization of possession and home cultivation of cannabis for adults in April. Social clubs, which could distribute marijuana to members, were scheduled to open in July. While the final vote on the proposal has been delayed until early next year, supporters remain optimistic about the planned April start date for certain elements of legalization.

Meanwhile, Malta, the smallest European Union country, continued to implement its marijuana legalization reform by issuing licenses for nonprofit "cannabis associations" to begin cultivating the plant. These licenses, the first of their kind ever issued in the EU, permit cannabis associations to have up to 500 members and distribute a limited quantity of cannabis per day and per month. The legislation aimed to strike a balance between individual freedom and responsible use.

In Colombia, lawmakers made significant progress in legalizing marijuana, advancing legislation through the Chamber of Representatives and a Senate committee. However, the proposal was voted to be shelved during the fourth debate in the Senate in December. Supporters of legalization blamed opponents for spreading misinformation, which contributed to the setback. Despite this defeat, proponents remain determined to continue fighting for drug policy change to end the war on drugs and address societal challenges.

Ukraine joined the list of countries embracing drug policy reform by signing off on a bill to legalize medical marijuana nationally. The measure, which aims to help patients with severe illnesses and post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from the ongoing conflict with Russia, was passed by the Verkhovna Rada in December. President Volodymyr Zelensky, who supports the reform, is expected to sign the legislation, which will become effective six months later.

Luxembourg became the second European Union country to legalize marijuana possession and cultivation. The new law, which took effect in July, permits adults to possess up to three grams of cannabis and grow up to four plants in a secure location within their private residence. Italy also witnessed renewed efforts towards marijuana legalization, with activists promoting a petition for a limited cannabis-only measure that would allow home cultivation, the establishment of social clubs, and the elimination of penalties for consumers.

Switzerland embarked on a cannabis legalization pilot program, permitting a limited number of participants in select locations, such as Zurich, to purchase marijuana from pharmacies and social clubs. The program aims to provide insights into various aspects of a regulated market, including consumption patterns, health effects, and public safety protections.

Finally, the Netherlands made progress in regulating its long-tolerated cannabis trade by allowing the legal cultivation of marijuana for the first time. Two cities, Breta and Tilburg, initiated the sale of legally cultivated cannabis after a six-month trial period. This move enhances quality control and consumer safety, while also marking a shift away from the criminalization of marijuana cultivation.

2023 proved to be a significant year for drug policy reform on the international stage, as countries across the globe took strides towards marijuana legalization and the establishment of more progressive drug policies. Despite some setbacks, the momentum for change continues to grow, demonstrating the increasing recognition of the need for a new approach to drug regulation.