German cannabis legalisation triggers conflict: a boon for consumers, a headache for suppliers
For years, Germany has been engaged in a debate over cannabis legalisation.
A step towards the easing of drug laws and decriminalising marijuana was announced in 2021 in its election campaign by the party that now forms the federal government, the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD).
"Bans and criminalisation have not reduced consumption, they obstruct effective addiction prevention and youth protection, and they consume vast resources for the judiciary and police," the SPD highlighted in its election programme.
In 2022, German health minister Karl Lauterbach publicly admitted that he was originally opposed to the legalisation of the common drug, but has since changed his stance.
He explained that legalisation is a means to undermine the black market, by disrupting the income stream of organised criminal groups, and also to protect users from contaminated drugs.
Lauterbach also referred to a report, which indicates that over the past 10 years the number of German cannabis users aged between 18 and 25 has risen by 100%.
What does legalisation in Germany entail?
The German parliament has legalised marijuana today, after years of discussion. Individuals over the age of 18 in Germany will now be able to possess sizable amounts of cannabis, although strict rules governing distribution could make purchase difficult.
The original plan was to allow sales in selective shops and pharmacies, but this idea was vetoed by the European Union due to concerns of a sudden surge in drug exports.
Distribution of marijuana in limited quantities will only take place via non-commercial membership clubs, known as associations. Each club will be capped at 500 members, with membership only available to residents of Germany.
In public spaces, possession of up to 25 g will be permitted, which is equivalent to numerous potent joints. In private homes, the legal limit will be 50 g.
Growing cannabis will also be permitted, with a maximum of three marijuana plants per household.
Over the coming years, the government wants to review the impact of the new law and, ultimately, introduce licenced sales of cannabis.
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German lawmakers to vote on legalising cannabis • FRANCE 24 English
Controversy
The new law is already stirring up considerable controversy. Commentators note that it is somewhat paradoxical as it allows for the possession of relatively large amounts of marijuana, while making acquisition difficult. The very restrictive rules imposed on the distribution of marijuana that would exclude, for instance, tourists, could stimulate the black market.
This viewpoint is shared by conservatives and some health professionals who fear for the health of young people. Simone Borchardt from the opposing Conservative Party of CDU argued that the government has implemented a "completely unnecessary, complicated law". The conservative opposition declares that if it wins the upcoming elections, it will fully revoke the law.
