A 2025 Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey on Public Attitudes Toward the Legalization and Depenalization of Recreational Cannabis in Poland

The legalization and depenalization of recreational cannabis is increasingly debated in Europe, including in Poland, where medical cannabis was legalized in 2017. Despite ongoing public discourse, up-to-date data on public attitudes toward recreational cannabis legalization remain limited. This study aimed to characterize public attitudes toward the legalization and depenalization of recreational cannabis in Poland. This retrospective, cross-sectional, computer-assisted web interviewing-based nationwide survey was conducted between July 11 and 13, 2025, using an online questionnaire completed by a representative sample of 1113 Polish adults. The survey assessed support for recreational cannabis depenalization, perceived accessibility, attitudes toward personal possession laws, and views on the impact of medical cannabis legalization. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with public attitudes. Results showed 29.6% respondents supported full legalization of recreational cannabis, 39.6% favored depenalization (eg, legal possession of up to 100 g or 3 plants), and 18.7% perceived cannabis as easily accessible; 32.4% expressed concern that medical cannabis legalization may lead to increased recreational use. Support for legalization and depenalization was significantly associated with male sex, younger age (18-29 years), urban residence, active occupational status, and good household economic status. Eight years after medical cannabis legalization, public opinion in Poland shows limited support for full recreational legalization but substantially greater acceptance of depenalization, revealing a clear policy gradient. Demographic factors of sex, age, and place of residence strongly shape public attitudes. These findings provide evidence to inform drug policy discussions in Poland and other Central and Eastern European countries.