The efforts of activists in Slovenia to modernize cannabis policy have gained momentum in the last few years, thanks in part to their hard work. Recent legalization of adult-use marijuana in Slovenia is a great example of the increasing momentum for cannabis reform in Slovenia.
Last month, the recreational measure that was proposed allowed adults to grow and possess marijuana. Bill was introduced after lawmakers approved a landmark medical cannabis bill in Europe. After voters approved referendums in Slovenia in 2024, lawmakers introduced both measures.
In 2024, Slovenian voters will decide on two questions relating to cannabis as part of the European Parliamentary elections. First, voters were asked “Should Slovenia permit the cultivation and treatment of medical cannabis on its soil?”
Slovenian voters approved this measure overwhelmingly, as the referendum question received a 66.71% vote of approval. Slovenian voters approved this measure in every locality. Only once before, in 1991, did a similar measure receive approval from all the jurisdictions of a European nation.
The question was asked as part of the vote for June 9, 2020 in Slovenia: Should the Republic of Slovenia allow limited possession and cultivation of cannabis on its own territory? This measure was supported by voters in a large majority (51,57%).
Cannabis Law in Europe: Most Progressive Cannabis Law
Slovenian legislators listened carefully to their voters, and passed what many consider to be Europe’s most progressive medical cannabis laws. The bill, which was passed in July 2025, legalizes cannabis cultivation, production and distribution for scientific and medical purposes.
Slovenia’s Medical Cannabis Law also introduces non-restrictive licencing, requires lawmakers to remove cannabis from the country’s narcotics lists within 90 days after the law’s approval and allows doctors prescribe cannabis in any case that they deem appropriate.
Cannabis legalization measures for adults introduced
Slovenian lawmakers introduced the adult use cannabis legalization bill just days after they approved the medical marijuana measure. If approved, the measure would allow adults to grow up to 4 plants at their residences. They could also possess up 7 grams when they are away from home, or up 150 grams in their own homes. If the limit is approved for private residences, it would represent one of Europe’s highest legal limits on cannabis.
The law prohibits public consumption and the selling of cannabis. Employers in this European nation would be prohibited from testing employees for marijuana under the new legislation. The proposal states that it is legal for adults in Slovenia to gift cannabis between themselves in some circumstances.
In the European Union Drugs Agency report 2025, cannabis consumption data shows that an estimated 2,8% of Slovenians adults consumed cannabis in the previous month. 5.4% consumed cannabis once or more in the preceding year. And 22% of Slovenians adults report having consumed marijuana at least one time in their lifetime.
European Union Countries Update Cannabis Policies
Slovenia has joined the increasing number of European Union nations modernizing cannabis laws and policies. Malta is the first EU member state to have legalized cannabis use for adults in 2021. Malta’s adult residents can grow four cannabis plants and have up to 50 grams cannabis in their home.
Luxembourg was the second European Union nation to make recreational cannabis legal for all adults in 2023. Luxembourg is one of the most conservative legal jurisdictions in Europe. Adults are only allowed to grow up to four plants at home, but can possess up to three grams of marijuana.
Germany will adopt a legalization policy in April 2024 that is considered to be the largest national measure of its kind not just in Europe but around the globe. Germany allows adult cannabis users to possess and cultivate 50 grams up to three plants at their homes.
The national government of Czechia approved the legalization of recreational cannabis earlier this year. Beginning January 1, 2026 adult Czechs will be allowed up to three cannabis plants and 100 grams in their home.
Europe has the world’s most dynamic cannabis industry and policy. If/when Slovenia legalizes adult use, this will add even more momentum to Europe. Learn more about European Cannabis Policy and Industry at the International Cannabis Business Conference taking place in Berlin, April 14-15th 2026.