Original scientific paper

PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY ON CANNABIS LEGALIZATION

Martina Mihaljević ; Faculty of Agronomy and Food Technology, University of Mostar, Biskupa Čule bb, 88 000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Helena Brekalo ; Faculty of Agronomy and Food Technology, University of Mostar, Biskupa Čule bb, 88 000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Josip Šimić ; Faculty of Health Studies, University of Mostar, Zrinskog Frankopana 34, 88 000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ivona Ljevak ; Faculty of Health Studies, University of Mostar, Zrinskog Frankopana 34, 88 000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Danijela Petrović ; Faculty of Agronomy and Food Technology, University of Mostar, Biskupa Čule bb, 88 000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina *

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Introduction: Cannabinoids are natural compounds present in plants of the cannabis family. The most important cannabinoids from a medical perspective are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). The correct dose and appropriate frequency of application are successful in using cannabis as a medicine for medical purposes.
Aim: To gain a deeper understanding of the attitudes and thoughts of society on the legalization of cannabis in BiH, with a special emphasis on the prejudices that have developed through the influence of the legal and social system. Also, the aim is to determine the extent to which social and cultural context influences people's thoughts on legalization and how these attitudes may vary depending on generation, education or social environment.
Result: The research included 210 respondents. The demographic data, attitudes and awareness of the respondents about the therapeutic use of cannabis were analyzed, including their familiarity with the pharmacological forms of cannabis and potential therapeutic effects. The research showed that the majority of the respondents positively assess the therapeutic effect of cannabis, while there is uncertainty among a small part of the population who still feel insufficiently informed.
Conclusion: The research provided insight into the attitudes of society towards the legalization of cannabis, confirming the hypothesis that the majority of the public has a positive attitude towards its therapeutic use. However, it indicates the need for additional education and reduction of uncertainty among citizens regarding its effect and potential risks.

Keywords

cannabis; therapeutic use of cannabis; attitudes; education; abuse

Hrčak ID:

347498

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/347498

Publication date:

29.5.2026.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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