Germany’s Cannabis Legislation: Striking a Balance Amidst Controversy

Germany has introduced a new law concerning cannabis. Several aspects have been added under this new law. According to this, obtaining medicine up to 25 grams daily for personal use through regulated cannabis cultivation associations will be possible. According to a survey, 47% of Germans are in favor of the plan, while 42% are against it.

Germany: Stringent Measures by German Government Regarding Cannabis, Challenges Expected in Buying and Selling Even After Legalization; Read About the New Law

A new law has been enacted in Germany regarding cannabis. AFP, Berlin. On Friday, the German parliament voted in favor of legalizing possession and controlled cultivation of cannabis, set to begin in April. After several ups and downs, a decision was made in favor of this aspect in parliament.

Before the vote, Health Minister Karl Lauterbach urged members of parliament to support the controversial law and argued that “the situation we are currently in is not acceptable in any way.”

Several Rules Changed Under the New Law

Several aspects have been added under the new law. According to this, obtaining medicine up to 25 grams daily for personal use through regulated cannabis cultivation associations will be possible. Additionally, it will also be possible to grow a maximum of three plants at home. However, possession and use of cannabis will remain prohibited for anyone under 18 years of age.

Contention Between Supporters and Opponents

Olaf Scholz, a member of the Social Democrats, Chancellor, said, “The number of young people using cannabis obtained from the black market has been rapidly increasing in Germany.”

Meanwhile, opposition CDU member Simon Borchardt opposed the law, stating that the new law will only increase health risks for young people. He dismissed Lauterbach’s assurances as mere show. Borchardt accused the coalition government led by Scholz’s Social Democrats of making policies not for the country but for its ideology.

Disagreements Even Within the Coalition

A key reason for contention was the promise made in the coalition agreement between the Social Democrats, Greens, and Liberal FDP to allow the sale of cannabis in stores, which was vetoed by the European Union.

Public Opinion on the Law

According to the news agency AFP, the new law has also faced widespread criticism from medical associations and health groups. Meanwhile, the German public is divided on this issue. According to a YouGov poll published on Friday, 47% of people are in favor of the plan, while 42% are against it.