Germany Takes a Step Towards Cannabis Liberalization
On Monday, Germany took a significant step towards liberalizing its cannabis laws, allowing adults to possess small amounts of marijuana for recreational purposes. The German Cannabis Association celebrated the new law by hosting a “smoke-in” at the iconic Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, with similar events taking place in other cities across the country.
Under the new legislation, adults aged 18 and over can possess up to 25 grams of marijuana, equivalent to nearly an ounce, and can also grow up to three plants at home. Additionally, individuals will be able to join non-profit “cannabis clubs” with a maximum of 500 members each, starting from July 1. These clubs will be self-sufficient, with membership fees covering the costs of the clubs.
The law also includes an amnesty provision, which will review and potentially reverse sentences for cannabis-related offenses that are no longer illegal. However, regional authorities are concerned about the potential burden on the judicial system, with thousands of cases expected to be reviewed.
The new law was pushed through by the current coalition government, comprising the Social Democrats, Greens, and Free Democrats, despite opposition from some federal states and the center-right Christian Democrats. The Christian Democratic leader, Friedrich Merz, has vowed to reverse the law if his party wins the national elections expected in 2025.
Not everyone is pleased with the new law, with leading garden stores indicating they will not be selling cannabis plants and the German Medical Association expressing concerns about the potential consequences for young people. Despite these criticisms, the German Cannabis Association hailed the new law as a significant step towards cannabis liberalization and a major victory for the campaign.
