Germany has recently made changes to its cannabis laws, allowing for the possession of small amounts of marijuana for recreational use. The new law, which came into effect at midnight, permits adults to possess up to nearly 1 ounce of marijuana and grow up to three plants for personal use.
To mark the occasion, the German Cannabis Association organized a celebratory event at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate, where individuals gathered to light up joints in support of the new legislation. Similar public consumption events were held in other cities across the country, including Cologne, Hamburg, Regensburg, and Dortmund.
Starting July 1, German residents aged 18 and older will be able to join nonprofit 'cannabis clubs' with a maximum of 500 members each. Members will be allowed to purchase up to 25 grams per day or a maximum of 50 grams per month, with limits set at 30 grams for individuals under the age of 21. The costs of these clubs will be covered by membership fees, which will vary based on usage.
In addition to legalizing possession and cultivation, the new law includes an amnesty provision for individuals with cannabis-related offenses that are no longer considered illegal. However, regional authorities have expressed concerns about the potential burden on the judicial system due to the review and potential reversal of thousands of cases.
The legislation was championed by the current coalition government, comprising the Social Democrats, the Greens, and the Free Democrats. Despite opposition from some federal states and the Christian Democrats, the law was successfully passed. The Christian Democratic leader has indicated plans to reverse the legislation if their party wins national elections in 2025.
While some garden stores have stated they will not be selling cannabis plants, the German Medical Association has raised concerns about the impact of the new law on the development and life prospects of young people in the country.
