Since Malta’s historic legalisation of recreational cannabis in 2021, 39 individuals have been prosecuted for smoking cannabis in public spaces, while only one person has faced charges for smoking in the presence of children.

These figures were revealed by Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri in response to parliamentary questions posed by Nationalist MP Ivan Bartolo.

The minister also disclosed that 30 individuals were arrested for cultivating more than the legal limit of four cannabis plants in their homes. Of these cases, three involved households where children were present.

Additionally, nine people were arrested for possessing more than 50 grams of cannabis for personal use, with two of these cases also involving minors in the household.

Malta made history in 2021 as the first EU country to legalise the recreational use of cannabis.

Adults aged 18 and over are permitted to possess up to seven grams of cannabis and grow up to four plants at home. However, public consumption and use near minors remain strictly prohibited under the law.

The law also paved the way for licensed cannabis associations, operating as non-profit organisations to cultivate and distribute cannabis within legal limits to registered members.

While cannabis consumption is restricted to private spaces, discussions about expanding legal frameworks are ongoing.

In October, the CEO of Malta’s Cannabis Authority announced plans to explore designated areas for public cannabis consumption and the potential sale of additional cannabis products through licensed associations.

These initiatives aim to address the persistent issue of illicit cannabis trade, as cannabis-related products beyond personal cultivation remain largely accessible only on the black market.

What do you make of these numbers?