I thought about why I see the full legalization of THC in Czechia as a bad idea—and I have some additional thoughts on this.
One of the main arguments for THC legalization is the idea that, like in the Netherlands, we could use THC to relax after work.
But honestly, this argument is one of the main reasons why I don’t support legalizing THC in Czechia. I don’t understand why anyone would need a joint or a bong just to relax after a job. It’s a foolish idea—needing a drug as a form of mental relaxation after work.
There are so many healthier ways to relax after work that don’t destroy brain cells. But the kind of person who doesn’t see any value in those healthy activities ends up choosing something that numbs and drains the brain. It’s like their mind is already so dulled that they don’t even consider real, restorative activities—and instead go for something that only kills more brain cells.
I find it hard to accept the idea of using THC after work, especially when the person already lacks awareness of good, healthy ways to relax and recharge. Maybe if THC stays illegal, some people might actually look for better alternatives—ones that are good for their mental and physical health. In that way, keeping THC illegal could encourage people to explore healthier paths.
Besides, alcohol is already available in Czechia for post-work relaxation—and that’s part of the reason why the country ranks so high in both alcohol and THC use. And that’s despite the fact that THC is still technically illegal. If it were legalized, THC abuse would only become worse.
Czechia also ranks high in hard drug use. You won’t find countries between Germany and Western Europe where injection drug equipment is as easily accessible or as common in public spaces as it is in Czech cities. In some parts of Czechia, drug use is everywhere. It seems like there’s not enough intellectual or cultural engagement to support healthier ways of living—and so drugs become the default for relaxation.
I’ve also spoken before about the term “Zapekat”—a slang word in some Slavic cultures that refers to a kind of mental numbness or dazed state caused by THC. It’s that spaced-out, blank-staring-into-the-wall kind of vibe that some people actually find appealing. To me, it’s an unhealthy and mind-numbing activity that many Slavic THC users seem to aspire to.
I won’t get into the COVID-era predictions or the societal reactions again—I’ve written enough about that—and everyone who understands already knows. I also touched on this in my poetic piece “The Red Flash in the Moonlight.” And of course, many know who sides with Putin-Russia and who voted for the red frauds.
Rather than turning to drugs after work, wouldn’t it be better to invest that time in something like learning English? It’s a clear sign of the difference between countries like Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, France, and the Netherlands—where speaking English is normal—and Czechia, where many people barely understand why they should learn it at all. They don’t know what’s happening in the world, and that ignorance creates even more distance.
There will never be better living conditions, better jobs, or more income if people keep betraying reality. And this is exactly why THC is legal in the Netherlands: because there’s a level of maturity required for responsible recreational use. But daily THC use after work? That’s not “recreational”—that’s addiction.
Just like daily or near-daily alcohol consumption is alcoholism, I believe the same applies to THC. And truthfully, alcoholism is already a serious issue in Czechia.
