BERLIN. Germany’s Cabinet is poised to greenlight a groundbreaking plan to relax regulations surrounding cannabis possession and sale, positioning the nation as a leader in the European Union’s push toward more lenient drug policies. The move could see the decriminalization of limited cannabis possession and the establishment of “cannabis clubs” where members can purchase the substance for recreational purposes.
The anticipated approval from the German government, expected on Wednesday, marks the initial phase of a two-part strategy that will require parliamentary endorsement. Although not as comprehensive as initially envisioned, this development signifies a significant stride for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s progressive coalition.
Health Minister Karl Lauterbach is scheduled to unveil the finalized legislation on Wednesday, revealing plans to legalize the possession of up to 25 grams (approximately 1 ounce) of cannabis for recreational usage. The proposed legislation also allows individuals to cultivate up to three cannabis plants for personal use.
Under the proposed framework, individuals aged 18 and above would be eligible to join nonprofit “cannabis clubs,” each accommodating a maximum of 500 members. These clubs would be authorized to cultivate cannabis for their members’ personal consumption. Daily cannabis purchases would be capped at 25 grams, with a monthly limit of 50 grams for individuals, except those under 21 who would have a 30-gram monthly limit. Membership in multiple clubs would be prohibited, and membership fees would be tiered based on usage.
Government officials are optimistic that the plan will counteract the black market, safeguard consumers against potentially tainted products, and mitigate drug-related criminal activity. Health Minister Lauterbach emphasized, “We are not creating a problem, we are trying to solve a problem.”
However, the center-right opposition voices concerns, contending that the government’s drive to legalize the drug ignores both European legal hurdles and expert viewpoints. A group representing German judges warns that the proposal might strain the judicial system further and inadvertently fuel demand for illegal cannabis. Even some advocates for legalization are discontent, arguing that the legislation imposes excessive regulation and continues to stigmatize cannabis users.
The government’s approach falls short of its earlier, more ambitious plan, which aimed to allow cannabis sales to adults across the country through licensed outlets. This scaled-back approach emerged after negotiations with the European Commission. Minister Lauterbach underscored that Germany aims to set a model for Europe and avoid replicating the Dutch approach, which combines decriminalization with minimal market control.
Contrasting approaches to cannabis policies are observable across Europe. Switzerland permitted a pilot project in Basel last year, allowing a limited number of individuals to purchase cannabis from pharmacies for recreational purposes. Similarly, the Czech Republic has been devising a plan akin to Germany’s, endorsing sales and recreational cannabis use, though the framework isn’t yet finalized.
Despite such developments, France remains steadfast in maintaining its stringent cannabis regulations, while Denmark’s bid to legalize cannabis was thwarted by its parliament. Meanwhile, the Netherlands, known for its “coffeeshops,” has embarked on an experiment to explore the controlled legal supply of cannabis to these establishments and its potential implications.
Germany’s anticipated move could set a precedent for the region, potentially influencing other nations to reconsider their cannabis policies in pursuit of safer and more regulated alternatives.
AP contributed to this story.
Gary P Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
