By Germany’s parliament voted to make cannabis legal for some recreational use, a decision that came despite concerns from some politicians and medical experts.
Under the new rules, adults can have small amounts of cannabis for personal use, but it’s still illegal for those under 18.
A majority of German lawmakers, 407 to be exact, supported this change in legislation, while 226 voted against it, and four abstained. This decision comes after a heated national discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of making access to cannabis easier.
With this move, Germany becomes the third European country, following Malta and Luxembourg, to legalize recreational cannabis, taking it off the list of prohibited substances.
While the Netherlands technically bans drug possession, some areas allow cannabis to be sold in designated places known as coffee shops, operating under a policy of tolerance.
In countries like Australia and the United States, rules regarding cannabis vary from place to place.
According to the new law proposed by the ruling coalition in Germany, adults will be allowed to grow up to three cannabis plants for personal use. They can also have up to 50g at home and 25g in public starting from April 1.
Starting July 1, cannabis will also be available in licensed non-profit clubs with a membership limit of 500, all of whom must be adults. Only members of these clubs will be permitted to consume cannabis produced by the club.
The Health Minister of Germany, Karl Lauterbach, stated that the aim of this law is to combat the black market, reduce drug-related crimes, and decrease the number of users.
It’s important to note that the new law maintains the illegality of cannabis for minors and imposes strict regulations on young adults. Additionally, consuming cannabis near schools and playgrounds will also be illegal.
Lauterbach emphasized that the main goal of the law is to protect children and youth. He stated, “Legalizing cannabis consumption doesn’t mean it’s not risky or harmful.”
The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Germany’s largest opposition party, opposed this legislation. CDU lawmaker Tino Sorge criticized the coalition, accusing them of acting like “state drug dealers” instead of prioritizing the protection of children and young people.
The German Medical Associations (GMA) also voiced strong opposition to the legalization of cannabis. GMA President Klaus Reinhardt argued that legalizing cannabis would lead to increased consumption and downplay the associated risks, including addiction and developmental harm. He emphasized that Germany does not need cannabis legalization.
