The German parliament, amidst strong opposition and objections from medical associations, approved legislation on Friday to legalize the possession and controlled cultivation of cannabis for personal use, effective from April onwards.
The new law permits individuals to acquire up to 25 grams of cannabis daily for personal consumption through regulated cannabis cultivation associations. Additionally, individuals will be allowed to cultivate up to three cannabis plants at home. However, it's important to note that possession and usage of the drug will remain prohibited for individuals under the age of 18.
With the enactment of this legislation, Germany will adopt some of the most progressive cannabis laws in Europe, aligning itself with countries like Malta and Luxembourg, both of which legalized recreational cannabis use in 2021 and 2023 respectively. While the Netherlands has long been recognized for its lenient cannabis laws, recent measures in certain regions of the country have tightened regulations on sales to tourists and non-residents.
Before the vote, Health Minister Karl Lauterbach urged parliamentarians to support the contentious law, emphasizing the urgent need for change due to the concerning rise in cannabis usage among young people obtained from illicit sources.
However, critics, including Simone Borchardt of the opposition CDU party, argue that the new law will exacerbate health risks for young individuals, accusing the governing coalition of prioritizing ideological agendas over the well-being of the nation.
Medical associations and health groups have also voiced their opposition to the legislation, citing potential adverse effects on physical and mental health, including the risk of psychosis, schizophrenia, respiratory diseases, and cancer associated with prolonged cannabis use.
Despite the criticism, proponents of the law, like Steffen Geyer of Berlin's Hemp Museum, view it as a step towards a more liberal and tolerant society, advocating for a rational and science-based approach to drug policy.
The cannabis law has been a contentious issue within the governing coalition, with plans to permit cannabis sales in shops being rejected by the EU. However, a second law is in the works to pilot the sale of cannabis in selected regions.
Under the newly passed legislation, individuals will be permitted to obtain cannabis equivalent to approximately 75 joints per day, with a monthly limit of 50 grams. Additionally, cannabis social clubs are slated to commence operations from July onwards.
Previously, German law restricted cannabis use to individuals with specific medical conditions, with private recreational use being prohibited, albeit often tolerated by law enforcement in cases of possession of small quantities.
Public opinion on the new law is divided, as indicated by a YouGov poll published on Friday, with 47 percent in favor and 42 percent against the proposed measures.
