The NORML movement spans multiple continents, bringing together organizations that share a common goal: ending cannabis prohibition and replacing it with fair, evidence-based policies. From North America to Europe, Oceania, and Africa, NORML chapters work independently within their own countries while collaborating internationally to exchange knowledge, support advocacy efforts, and advance cannabis reform. Together, these organizations represent decades of activism, education, and policy development in pursuit of a more sensible approach to cannabis worldwide.
NORML.org (USA)
Founded in 1970, NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) is the original and largest cannabis law reform organization in the world. Established by activist Keith Stroup, NORML has spent more than five decades advocating for the decriminalization and legalization of cannabis, defending the rights of consumers, and promoting evidence-based cannabis policies. The organization has played a major role in shaping cannabis reform across the United States and has inspired affiliated chapters around the world, and most States have NORML chapters.
“There is absolutely nothing wrong with the responsible use of marijuana by adults and it should be of no interest or concern to the government. They have no business knowing whether we smoke or why we smoke.” – Keith Stroup
NORML South Africa
NORML South Africa was established in 2008 during a gathering in Melville, Johannesburg, at a time when cannabis prohibition remained firmly entrenched in South Africa. Since its founding, the organization has become one of the leading voices for cannabis reform in South Africa and across Africa. NORML South Africa advocates for adult-use rights, home cultivation, medical access, and sensible regulation while providing education and supporting cannabis activists throughout the region.
NORML New Zealand
NORML New Zealand was formed in 1979 and formally incorporated in 1980, making it one of the oldest NORML chapters outside the United States. For more than four decades, it has campaigned for cannabis law reform, consumer rights, and harm reduction. The organization has played an important role in New Zealand’s cannabis policy discussions, including advocacy around medicinal cannabis and the 2020 cannabis legalization referendum.
NORML Canada
Founded in 1978, NORML Canada is one of the longest-running cannabis advocacy organizations in the world. For decades it campaigned for the rights of cannabis consumers, medical cannabis access, and sensible public policy. Following Canada’s historic legalization of adult-use cannabis in 2018, NORML Canada has continued its work by focusing on consumer protection, fair regulations, and ensuring that legalization benefits the public rather than creating unnecessary barriers for consumers and small businesses.
NORML France
NORML France is a non-profit organization dedicated to cannabis law reform, harm reduction, and public education. The modern organization emerged from the merger of several French cannabis advocacy groups in 2013 and later adopted the NORML France name. The organization works to unite patients, consumers, healthcare professionals, and legal experts in support of evidence-based cannabis policies and greater access to medical cannabis in France.
NORML United Kingdom
Founded in 2012, NORML UK serves as the official United Kingdom chapter of the international NORML movement. The organization advocates for the legal reform of cannabis laws, supports patient access to medical cannabis, and promotes responsible adult use. NORML UK works alongside campaigners, patients, researchers, and policymakers to encourage evidence-based cannabis legislation throughout the United Kingdom.
Live with NORML is a weekly cannabis policy, news, and science series hosted by the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. You can typically catch these educational broadcasts featuring key NORML staff every Friday afternoon.
Where to Watch and Stream
You can access their live streams and catch up on previous discussions across multiple platforms:
- Facebook: Watch the weekly broadcasts as they happen directly on the Official NORML Facebook Page.
- YouTube: Browse past episodes and updates on the Official NORML YouTube Channel.
- Network Streams: NORML also features 24-hour network streams on their official NORML Network platform.
What to Expect
These Friday afternoon sessions typically feature NORML’s Deputy Director JM Pedini and Legal Director Paul Armentano. Discussions cover:
- State and federal marijuana rescheduling updates
- New cannabis science and legislation trends
- Live Q&A and community conversations
For a deep dive into the latest on federal marijuana rescheduling updates:
