Germany moved forward with a law that partially legalizes recreational cannabis use after tough debates within the political, policing, and health sectors. The measure prompted hundreds of people to gather in Berlin to celebrate, some smoking cannabis, while critics including several doctors and parts of the opposition voiced concerns.
Around 1,500 Berlin residents gathered near midnight in front of the Brandenburg Gate, alongside a one-meter model of a cannabis leaf and banners bearing slogans such as “Caution, partiers” and “We don’t want to be criminals.”
More gatherings of this nature were anticipated to occur across the country on Easter Monday.
“I believe legalization is the right move, albeit late. It is important to allow cannabis use, especially when comparing its effects to alcohol. I also expect decriminalization to reduce young people’s interest in using it,” said Christian, a Hamburg native, to EFE.
Restrictions and a ban on sales
Around today, adults over 18 may cultivate up to three cannabis plants at home for personal use or possess 50 grams of dried flowers in private space. Public spaces will permit up to 25 grams.
Smoking is prohibited in playgrounds, schools, sports facilities including football stadiums, facilities for children and youth, and in view of them. Cannabis use is also not allowed between 07:00 and 20:00 in pedestrian zones.
Beginning on July 1, clubs with up to 500 members may be established to cultivate cannabis collectively for private consumption, rather than for commercial purposes, and members may exchange cannabis among themselves.
Distribution and sale remain illegal, as does driving a motor vehicle under the influence of the drug.
There is no legal limit for cannabis impairment while driving comparable to alcohol. In the absence of a clear framework, a commission of experts proposed a maximum active THC concentration of 3.5 nanograms per milliliter of blood serum.
Anyone exceeding the personal-use limits faces fines of up to 30,000 euros or, in the worst case, imprisonment.
Medical professionals and opposition criticisms
Opponents argue that the possession cap set by the law is too high. The German Medical Association states that 50 grams per month equates to high-risk consumption and can lead to cannabis-related disorders.
The Health Ministry contends that legal cannabis should be available in greater quantities if the black market is to be undermined.
The Justice Minister argues that legalization will ease pressure on the courts and police over time. Currently, more than 100,000 criminal cases involving cannabis users are open.
The path to partial legalization was not easy in the central European nation, where the main opposition party, the Christian Democratic Union, has signaled it would overturn the law if it gains government control.
Revised measure version
The policy, proposed by the Health Minister, underwent significant changes before receiving parliamentary approval on February 23, backed by the government coalition of Social Democrats, Greens, and Free Democrats, along with The Left party.
It nearly stalled in the Upper House, where state governments in 16 federated states expressed opposition. A late-hour concession from the health minister to include regular checks in cannabis clubs and federal support for prevention measures helped push the law forward on March 22.
Meanwhile, the government’s Drugs and Addictions Commissioner has urged decisions on pilot projects for cannabis commerce, describing them as the only way to ensure occasional users do not rely on illicit suppliers.
Initially the government also explored permitting cannabis sales through state-licensed stores but dropped the plan after concerns raised by the European Commission.