Changes in cannabis control are apparent in the Americas and more recently in Europe. These changes are not without their challenges. They have the potential to undermine the value of international laws and agreements more broadly. Where the motivation for changing policy is to reduce the harms caused by the status quo, the situation will need to be closely monitored and evaluated to ensure these outcomes are being achieved. Any unintended negative outcomes will also need to be monitored and minimised with the rollback or amendment of policies as necessary. A rigorous evidence base will be required to support these decisions. Reducing the harms will need to remain central to the policymaking and legislative process, and not be usurped by the business interests of the cannabis industry.

CND is the central drug policymaking body of the UN. It aims to provide member states and civil society with the opportunity to exchange expertise, experiences, and information on drug-related matters and to develop a coordinated response to the drugs situation. Membership is made up of representatives from 53 UN member states, allowing for a spread of geographical representation. Ireland is not currently a member of CND.