At this yearâs general election, New Zealand voters will have the opportunity to directly influence the future of cannabis policy in Aotearoa via a referendum. The Cannabis Legislation and Control Bill aims to provides a regulatory framework for the legal production, supply, and consumption of cannabis in New Zealand; its purpose is to ultimately reduce cannabis harm to individuals and to families.
The complex dimensions of this issue, however, are a strong barrier to entry for voters.
In August, The Equal Justice Project held an online symposium featuring a panel of experts. They discussed the impact and efficacy of the Bill by providing a platform of debate and discussion in the hope that by presenting a diverse view of perspectives, voters can become more educated so that they can make an informed decision about the future of New Zealandâs cannabis policy.
Panelists:
Khylee Quince – Associate Professor at AUT. She is an expert in MÄori and criminal justice.
Marta Rychert – Senior Research Officer at the SHORE & Whariki Research Centre, Massey University. Her work lies at the intersection of health, policy and law.
James Farmer QC – Barrister, Queen’s Counsel, Academic.
Chris Wilkins – Associate Professor and leader of the SHORE & Whariki Research Centre, Massey University. He is an expert in drug trends, drug markets, public health, and drug policy.
Mark Henaghan – Professor of Law at the University of Auckland.
Symposium Podcast – Part One:Â
Symposium Podcast – Part Two:Â
For more of our audio and visual content, check out our YouTube channel, or head to the University of Aucklandâs manuscripts and archives collection.
This online symposium is part of a content-sharing agreement with the Equal Justice Project.
Disclaimer: The ideas expressed in this discussion reflect the views of the guests and not necessarily the views of The Big Q.Â
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