The liberalization of cannabis laws and the political balance among our western neighbors have made the partial legalization of marijuana in Germany a reality in 2024. This groundbreaking move by one of Europe's largest economies seemed like a lasting one, but recently, the enthusiasm of marijuana supporters has waned somewhat.

This is all thanks to recent announcements by the CDU and CSU coalition parties. What is the current state of marijuana law in Germany, what is the public mood like, and what does the future hold for cannabis in the Rhineland?

Liberal Germany? What has changed since April 1, 2024?

After years of public discussion, April 1, 2024 occurred partial legalization of marijuana in Germany, which, to the delight of cannabis supporters, turned out not to be an April Fool's joke. Under a Bundestag law, adults have been allowed to possess up to 25 grams marijuana.

In addition, anyone over 18 years of age can have up to 50 grams dried cannabis at home, as well as growing a maximum of three cannabis plants for personal use.

The only restriction currently in place is a ban on consuming marijuana on playgrounds, sports centers, and schools, as well as within a 100-meter radius of the entrance to these facilities. This liberalization of the law in this area was a long-standing requirement in the coalition agreement between the SPD, FPD, and the Greens.

Cannabis Social Clubs – what are they?

In the package of the law sanctioning the possession of marijuana, Germany also legalized Cannabis Social Clubs. These are so-called Hemp Clubs, non-profit organizations that allow for the cultivation and distribution of cannabis to members up to 50 grams per person per month.

The CSC's cooperative principles support the sharing of cannabis for both recreational and medical purposes. The Cannabis Social Club can have up to 500 members residing in Germany.

Benefits of legalizing marijuana in Germany

Legalization of marijuana in Germany is a number of benefits – both for public health and safety, and for the national economy. Here are the main benefits of liberalizing marijuana possession and use laws in Germany:

increased public safety, as the legalization of cannabis reduces the risk of developing illegal markets and crime related to drug trafficking,
public health protection – market regulations help control the quality of marijuana, including the consumption of contaminated substances or substances of unknown composition or origin,
higher revenues to the state budget that can be allocated to social, educational or health purposes,
fewer police interventions and fewer court cases related to possession of small amounts of marijuana, allowing for more serious crimes to be focused on,
support for scientific research and medicine – the legalization of marijuana facilitates research related to its medicinal properties,
new jobs – the legal market directly translates into increased employment,
changing social attitudes – the sanctioning of cannabis is associated with reducing the stigmatization of users of the popular "herb".

An important aspect of reaping the long-term benefits of marijuana legalization in Germany is promoting a responsible approach to cannabis in society.

Germany and the Permanent Legalization of Marijuana. What's Next?

After the German government passed a law on the partial legalization of marijuana from April 1, 2024, the discussion between supporters and opponents continues this solution. What will Germany ultimately decide?

Legalizing or decriminalizing marijuana?

Currently, over half of Germans support maintaining the liberalized cannabis law, but the current CDU/CSU ruling party has announced its intention to repeal the "controversial" law. The Christian Democrats argue that legalizing marijuana in Germany harms youth and makes it harder for police to combat drug crime. Most states support maintaining the current law, but some, such as Bavaria, are opting to withdraw marijuana legalization. The public debate continues.