The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), the United Nations body responsible for overseeing global drug control, has raised "concern" about Australia's potential movement toward legalising recreational cannabis use.
The INCB's 2024 annual report, released last week, states that the body has "communicated to the government of Australia" that any steps to end cannabis prohibition would conflict with the country's obligations under the UN Single Convention.
Citing a bill introduced in New South Wales by Legalise Cannabis MP Jeremy Buckingham, the INCB noted it has an "excellent working relationship with Australian authorities and acknowledges the country's active participation in INCB programs and activities."
"At the same time, the board has noted with concern proposed changes in New South Wales to laws affecting the legal status of cannabis for non-medical purposes that would legalise the home cultivation of up to six plants for personal use, the gifting of cannabis and the possession of up to 50 grams of the drug," the INCB wrote in the report.
"The board has communicated to the government of Australia that this measure is inconsistent with the country's international legal obligations as a state party to the 1961 convention as amended and the 1988 convention.
"The board will continue its dialogue with the government of Australia and counts on the country's continued support and cooperation."
Beyond the NSW proposal, legalisation efforts have also emerged in Victoria and Western Australia, while Greens MP David Shoebridge introduced the Legalising Cannabis Bill 2023 in Canberra.
That legislation was blocked from advancing past a second reading following a vote in parliament in November.
