Is Weed Legal in Belarus?

Recreational marijuana is illegal in the Republic of Belarus. Cannabis falls under Article 328 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus, regulating illegal manufacture, processing, acquisition, storage, transport, and transfer of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

Article 328 Part 1 (possession or transfer without intent to distribute) is punished by restriction of liberty up to 5 years or imprisonment of 2 to 5 years. Part 2 (acts with intent to distribute, including any distribution) carries 3 to 8 years' imprisonment with optional asset forfeiture. Part 3 (organized group, official abuse, prior conviction, large quantities, or supply to minors) escalates to 6 to 15 years, and Part 4 (death of a user) reaches up to 25 years. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the State Forensic Examination Committee enforce, and the Standing Commission on Drug Control sits under the Ministry of Health. Reforms in 2019 expanded administrative diversion for first-time use, but criminal liability for possession persists.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.