This study focuses on the influence of scientific results in the development of Dutch cannabis policy. It also describes how scientists, policy makers and politicians mutually communicate. The findings suggest how this communication can be improved. We assumed that scientific data play a minor role in the development of cannabis policy. To test this hypothesis, the content of policy reports was analysed and people involved in the development of the cannabis policy, e.g. policy makers, politicians and scientists, were interviewed. The results show that our hypothesis to be partly true. The outcome of scientific research plays a minor role in the formulation of cannabis policy. Policy makers and politicians use results of research studies but ideology and coincidence are more influential. Substantial improvement in communication is to be expected in the communication between politicians and scientists. Both groups are convinced that a better communication would be desirable. Profit can be gained by the available time of politicians and the accessibility of research reports. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting