Public prosecutor Gerardo Cavero gave a talk to first and second-year Law students about the current legal and practical aspects of cannabis clubs. A practice that is not covered under current legislation, reiterated the expert.

Cavero explained that he has been observing this phenomenon since 2012, though cannabis clubs began cropping up as early as the 1990s, and assured attendees that, during this time, he has handled “over 300 drug prosecution files, none of which fulfilled the terms of their articles of association”. The purpose of which is to establish them as an association. 

According to the public prosecutor, in most cases, these articles of association listed as inherent activities the organisation of forums for scientific dissemination, for example, though “what they really do is establish a black market”, he indicated, and possibly provide a “cover for illicit activities”. 

In fact, the public prosecutor pointed out that, “if cannabis associations and clubs were to commit crimes against public health, the president of the association could be charged with up to 15 years in prison”.

Lastly, Cavero emphasised three key points:

1.Cannabis and its derivatives are classified as a drug; tobacco and alcohol are not.

2.Their activities are not covered under current legislation.

3.The activity of these associations is not covered under the law on collaborative consumption.