Marlène Schiappa to appear on the cover of High Times Magazine
A few days ago, Marlène Schiappa (former Minister Delegate in charge of Citizenship under Emmanuel Macron and currently Secretary of State in charge of the Social and Solidarity Economy and Associative Life in the Macron - Borne government) made the front page of High Times Magazine, a media outlet specializing in cannabis-related issues. Why such a decision? For what impact? In the rest of this article, we take a look back at an announcement that came out of nowhere, and could be the starting point for a series of decisions on cannabis issues in France that nobody saw coming.
What is High Times Magazine?
Why such a front page?
Executive ready to legalize cannabis?
An interview, but what's next?
CBD as a fallback solution
What is High Times Magazine?
Marlène Schiappa is about to make the front page of High Times Magazine. But what is this media? If you've never heard of it, you should know that it's one of the most influential media outlets in the USA (and the rest of the world), when it comes to marijuana, cannabis and its cultivation, as well as its legality.
The latter was founded by Tom Forçade. It quickly gained in popularity to the point of becoming a symbol of counter-culture and marijuana legalization activism. The site features numerous articles on cannabis cultivation, its various uses and consumption techniques, as well as more "societal" information.
Over the years, High Times Magazine has diversified its activities. In addition to the media aspect, the group has also organized events that have become recognized the world over, such as the High Times Cannabis Cup, which rewards the best varieties of marijuana and related products. A medium that remains controversial, however, not least for the subject it tackles in depth... But one that has managed to rise above it to stay in place!
Why such a Une?
The question "Why such a Une" naturally arises. Cannabis is a highly sensitive issue in France, and the government seems to be vehemently opposed to legalization (even for medicinal purposes).
The executive has even attempted toban CBD, and in particular its Flowers, proof that there is still a long way to go at the highest levels of government before a decision is reached that is closer to the expectations of many people.
So it's only natural to be surprised by this front page featuring Marlène Schiappa. However, if you dig a little deeper, it makes sense because, in the course of this interview, Ms. Schiappa seems to take a swipe at French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin's policy on cannabis, which is deemed repressive.
During her interview, the Minister reiterates that it is essential that human rights are respected, adding that the government must take a real step forward on the issue of medical cannabis.
To justify its position, the company points out that a number of studies have shown that cannabis does indeed have interesting analgesic properties, which can relieve pain and inflammation in those who suffer most.
The economic argument
In addition to the health and therapeutic aspects, Marlène Schiappa has put forward an argument that, although well known, has been given far too little emphasis by politicians: the economic argument.
Indeed, she believes that legalizing cannabis in France could create a large number of jobs and generate a huge amount of tax revenue (corporate taxes, etc.) which could then be used to fund public services.
The safety issue
In addition to the economic aspect, Marlène Schiappa also emphasized the importance of legalizing cannabis from a safety point of view. Authorizing cannabis consumption is tantamount to authorizing its cultivation and trade. As a result, drug trafficking can be combated more effectively. Producers work around quality products, based on natural cannabis. In short, everyone wins.
Is the executive ready to legalize cannabis?
"If Marlène is going, it's because the President has authorized it. From now on, I'm in favor of legalizing cannabis in France," explained Eric Pouillat for Newsweed. As a reminder, the latter was the bearer of the law on the repenalization of cannabis in France a few years ago. At the time, cannabis users were fined a lump sum if they were stopped. A policy that ended in stinging failure.
Schiappa's statement seems to thumb her nose at restrictive policies, and could demonstrate that the government is ready to listen and reflect on the subject. However, it could also be a simple communication stunt, with no impact on future events.
An interview, but what's next?
A headline and an interview, all right. But what next? As a reminder, France is one of Europe's most backward countries when it comes to cannabis-related issues. Can Schiappa's attitude change the mindset of the political class?
Will France soon be able to join Malta, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Luxembourg on the list of the most advanced countries in terms of cannabis regulation? The next few months and years promise to be important.
The first step is the completion of the major study on medical cannabis. Things could then happen quite quickly, even if, at the moment, it's all hypothetical.
CBD as a fallback solution
Until then, consumers and retailers can turn to CBD, which remains legal. As a reminder, cannabidiol-based products can only be consumed if they contain less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychotropic molecule of the cannabis plant).
At Le Grossiste Du CBD, we offer a range of great B2B products for sale, from CBD oils to hemp flowers, infusions and e-liquids. CBD products for professionals, which we sell at the best prices and deliver as quickly as possible!
