Similarities and differences in views on cannabis legalisation among journalists, NGOs, policy makers and experts

Background: Research shows that the proportion of Slovenian residents in favour of legalising cannabis has been increasing over the last ten years. The aim of this paper is to illustrate the attitudes towards the legalisation of cannabis among four target audiences that have significant influence on public opinion, namely journalists, NGOs, policy makers and experts. 

Method: We used the findings of qualitative research in the form of guided conversation or focus groups, conducted in January and February 2024, with invited interviewees in the four focus groups under study. In total, approximately 20 people will participate in the focus groups. The focus groups were used to obtain opinions, attitudes and beliefs related to the legislation of cannabis.  

Results: Focus group questions included, among others, general attitudes towards the legalisation of cannabis, the advantages and disadvantages of cannabis as an illicit drug, the advantages and disadvantages of cannabis as a substance legalised for medicine purposes, the advantages and disadvantages of full legalisation of cannabis, and the current legal status of cannabis.

The paper presents the key opinions, views and beliefs expressed by the interviewees in the four focus groups in response to the above questions. The focus here is on exploring the details and differences in opinions, views and beliefs between these four groups.  

Conclusion: The findings highlight the key attitudes and differences in attitudes towards the legalisation of cannabis and other possible legal statuses of cannabis among the four target groups that have a significant influence on public opinion. Knowing these attitudes is important for planning the future regulation of the legal status of cannabis and for designing supportive communication strategies.