Germany’s Federal Council has given the green light to a groundbreaking bill, legalizing recreational cannabis for personal use despite facing significant criticism and attempts to impede or delay the legislative process.
This momentous decision marks a significant milestone in Germany’s drug policy landscape. With the approval from the Federal Council, the path towards legalizing recreational cannabis for personal use in Germany is now firmly established.
On March 22, the Federal Council endorsed a law previously passed by the Bundestag, setting the stage for the possession and cultivation of cannabis for personal consumption, effective from April 1st. Notably, while individuals will have the liberty to possess and cultivate cannabis for personal use, the sale of cannabis will remain prohibited under the new legislation.
This move represents a significant departure from the traditional stance on cannabis in Germany, signaling a shift towards a more progressive approach to drug regulation. As Germany embraces this shift, it joins the ranks of countries worldwide that have opted for a more liberal stance on cannabis, recognizing its potential benefits and addressing the evolving attitudes towards its recreational use.
The decision to legalize recreational cannabis in Germany comes after years of debate and advocacy, reflecting changing societal attitudes towards drug policy and the growing recognition of the failures of prohibitionist approaches. By embracing legalization, Germany aims to regulate cannabis use more effectively, mitigate associated harms, and redirect resources towards public health and education initiatives rather than enforcement and incarceration.
This historic move is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only within Germany but also across the broader European Union, as other nations reassess their own drug policies in light of this progressive shift. As Germany takes this bold step towards cannabis legalization, it sets a precedent for evidence-based drug policy reform and fosters a more enlightened approach to addressing drug-related issues.
As part of the initial phase of the new cannabis policy, the coalition government is not only focused on legalizing recreational cannabis for personal use but also on addressing the framework surrounding cannabis social clubs. Amendments to the existing laws are expected to be in place before July 1, the proposed launch date for these clubs.
In the wake of Germany’s decision, stakeholders are now tasked with implementing effective regulatory frameworks to ensure the responsible use of cannabis and safeguard public health while simultaneously addressing concerns related to access, taxation, and youth prevention.
As Germany embarks on this new chapter in its drug policy journey, the world watches closely, recognizing the significance of this paradigm shift and its potential to shape the future of drug regulation on a global scale.
As part of the initial phase of the new cannabis policy, the government is not only focused on legalizing recreational cannabis for personal use but also on addressing the framework surrounding cannabis social clubs. Amendments to the existing laws are expected to be in place before July 1, the proposed launch date for these clubs.
Here’s what you need to know:
- The laws will allow individuals 18+ years old to possess a substantial amount of cannabis, smoking in public spaces (except for parks and sports facilities).
- Possession of up to 25g is to be allowed in public, and at home you’re legally only allowed up to 50g.
- 3 plants allowed up to per household
- Cultivation and consumption of marijuana at nonprofit cannabis social clubs limited to 500 members to start in July. These associations will be allowed non-commercial self-cultivation and to carry out controlled distribution of the cultivated cannabis amongst its members.
- cannabis club members between 18 and 21 years old will only be allowed to purchase weed with a maximum THC content of 10% and only up to 30 grams per month.
- For those under 18, cannabis consumption will continue to be forbidden
If you’d like to read more on the bill, click here
Photo by Ingo Joseph