In the EU, Austria has some of the most strict cannabis regulations. Austria has not eased its restrictions, whereas other countries have. Access to medical cannabis is also difficult. There is only Dronabinol, and getting it involves a difficult prescription procedure.
Reforming Austria’s drug policy appears unlikely as a new government is formed. A collaboration between the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the conservative Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) will probably occur. Liberalization of cannabis has historically been opposed by both parties. This implies that strict rules will remain in place, if not worsen.
Austrian coalition of cannabis resistance
There hasn’t been much interest in cannabis reform from the ÖVP. Legalization is highly opposed by the FPÖ, who refer to cannabis as a “gateway drug.” After Germany decriminalized cannabis in April 2024, its anti-cannabis stance became stronger. Criticizing the action, the FPÖ warned of “drug tourism” and a “attack on youth.”
This coalition has previously held power. Stricter drug restrictions, including prohibitions on hemp seeds and more severe fines, were proposed by their administration in 2019. Before these policies were implemented, their authority came to an end due to the Ibiza scandal. Now that the same coalition is back, same limitations could come back.
What about freedoms and traffic safety in Austria?
Stricter driving regulations might be introduced by the ÖVP-FPÖ coalition. A 2019 proposal equated any THC detection with driving under the influence of 1.6 per mille alcohol. This ignores scientific data. For days, THC can stay in the body without impairing function.
Even CBD users or regular buyers may be subject to criminal charges or license suspension under this rule. Critics contend that without increasing road safety, these policies would hurt people.
Rejection of evidence-based policy
Austria has an ideological rather than a scientific position on cannabis. Small amounts of THC do not affect driving, according to studies. However, parliamentarians, particularly those from the FPÖ, prefer punishment to policy supported by science.
This strategy is similar to Bavaria’s anti-cannabis initiatives, which depend more on outdated fears than on accurate information. Austria’s strict approach stands in contrast to other European countries that place a higher priority on harm reduction.
A step backward for Austria
If the ÖVP-FPÖ coalition continues, cannabis laws in Austria are either going to stay the same or get worse. Criminalization and strict driving regulations would distance Austria from its more forward-thinking peers. Without addressing issues of public health, these policies do harm to individuals.
While Europe advances, Austria may fall behind. Advocates for cannabis liberalization must deal with strong opposition. Austria continues to be a case of ideology triumphing over science, to the cost of society, until reform occurs.