On Wednesday, the Finnish Parliament firmly rejected a citizen initiative aimed at legalizing cannabis with a decisive vote of 144 to 18. The initiative, which proposed allowing the use, possession, personal cultivation, production, and sale of cannabis under regulated conditions and age limits, was scrutinized by the Legal Affairs Committee before the final vote. The committee concluded that the objectives of reducing harm and protecting children and young people should be pursued through other measures rather than legalization.

Support for the legalization proposal came primarily from representatives of opposition parties, including Atte Harjanne from the Greens and Minja Koskela, the chair of the Left Alliance. Harjanne emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of drug policy development and called for the abandonment of punitive measures regarding drug use. This shows a clear divide between the ruling coalition and the opposition regarding approaches to drug policy, highlighting ongoing debates within Finnish society about the most effective methods for managing substance use.

The outcome of this vote indicates the Finnish Parliament's strong stance against cannabis legalization at this time, reflecting concerns about public health, safety, and the welfare of youth. The rejection of the initiative may impact future discussions and proposals on drug legislation, suggesting that proponents of reform will need to find different strategies to advance their cause. The decision also positions Finland uniquely in its drug policy discourse, alongside other European nations considering similar legalization proposals.