Germany has made history by becoming the largest EU country to legalize recreational cannabis, marking a significant shift in drug policy despite opposition from various sectors.
Under the groundbreaking new law, adults over 18 years old are now permitted to possess up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and cultivate up to three marijuana plants in their homes, representing a substantial departure from previous regulations.
The move positions Germany among the most progressive nations in Europe regarding cannabis legislation, joining the ranks of Malta and Luxembourg, which paved the way by legalizing recreational use in 2021 and 2023, respectively.
Germany’s decision comes amid evolving attitudes towards cannabis across the continent. Even in the Netherlands, renowned for its historically lenient stance on the drug, recent years have seen a tightening of regulations aimed at curbing cannabis tourism.
Despite objections from opposition politicians and medical associations, Germany’s move signals a decisive step towards embracing the benefits of cannabis legalization while addressing associated challenges.