In its ruling, the Supreme Administrative Court says that the National Board of Patents and Registration was in error in rejecting the organization’s 2012 application on the grounds that its activities were considered not be within accepted codes of conduct.
The association says its purpose is to spur a more diversified public debate on drug policy with the aim of a more tolerant attitude toward cannabis. Its goal is legislation that would permit the use and possession of cannabis and the cultivation of cannabis for personal use.
According to the Supreme Administrative Court, there is no pressing need that would justify refusal to register the association, and a decision to do so seriously limits the right of free association.
The Court stressed that that it was not taking a stand on the acceptability of the Cannabis Association's goals.
The Cannabis Association also attempted to officially register in 1993. At that time the Ministry of Justice blocked the process, and the Supreme Administrative Court allowed the decision to stand.
