Germany has made a significant stride in drug policy reform by becoming the third European Union Member State to legalise recreational cannabis for personal use, following Malta and Luxembourg.
The German federal parliament approved the legalisation with a majority vote—407 in favour, 226 against, and four abstentions. This landmark decision, effective from April 1st, marks a pivotal change in the country’s approach towards cannabis.
Under the new law, individuals are permitted to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis in public and 50 grams at home, facilitating a more lenient stance on personal use. Furthermore, it legalises the cultivation of up to three cannabis plants per person.
Another aspect of the legislation is the introduction of cannabis social clubs. These clubs can accommodate up to 500 members, providing a communal space for cultivation and consumption, from which individuals can obtain up to 50 grams per month.
This move is seen as a step towards altering the social and legal landscape surrounding cannabis use in Germany. Despite much backlash at the decision, this step in drug policy reform hopes to clamp down on the illegal market.
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