Berlin after the Legalization of Cannabis in Germany

Cannabis was legalized for medical purposes in Germany in 2017. The Law on the Medical Use of Cannabis (Cannabis als Medizin) came into force on March 10, 2017. This law allowed the medical use of cannabis and its derivative products, such as oils and extracts, to treat various diseases when other treatments were ineffective or incompatible. The legalization of cannabis for medical purposes in Germany was a significant step towards more tolerant drug policies and ensuring patient access to the medicinal uses of this plant.

After the legalization of medical cannabis use in Germany in 2017, several significant events occurred:

Market Development: Following the implementation of the law on medical cannabis use, there was a surge of interest in the market. New medical products based on cannabis emerged, along with companies and distributors involved in their production and sale.

1. Regulatory Clarifications: Over the following years, rules and regulations regarding medical cannabis use in Germany were developed and refined. This included establishing quality and safety standards for products, requirements for prescriptions and medical examinations of patients, as well as regulations for cultivation and production.
2. Increased Demand and Public Opinion: With time, there was a rise in demand for medical cannabis products, and public opinion about them became more favorable. Many patients suffering from various conditions found relief through medical cannabis, contributing to its further acceptance in society.
3. Investment and Research Growth: The legalization of medical cannabis also attracted investments in research into its medical properties and potential. Numerous research projects were initiated in Germany and other countries, aimed at studying the effectiveness and safety of cannabis for various medical conditions.

Germany Legalizes Limited Recreational Use of Cannabis: Health Minister Applauds Decision

Overall, the legalization of medical cannabis in Germany marked the beginning of a new era in medical science and practice, opening up new opportunities for patient treatment and stimulating the development of the medical cannabis industry in the country.

Last month, the lower house of parliament in Germany voted to legalize cannabis for limited recreational use after a heated national debate on the advantages and disadvantages of increasing access to the drug. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach expressed his approval of the decision in a statement on Monday, highlighting the potential benefits for drug addicts, youth prevention, and combating the black market. The updated regulations allow adults to possess small quantities of cannabis for personal use, while maintaining the prohibition for individuals under 18.

According to the new legislation proposed by Germany’s ruling coalition party, adults can grow up to three plants for personal use and are allowed to possess 50g at home and 25g in public places starting from April 1st. Starting from July 1st, cannabis will be available in licensed non-profit clubs with no more than 500 members, all of whom must be adults. Only club members will be permitted to consume the products. The German government has stated that cannabis will remain illegal for minors and strictly regulated for young people, emphasizing that drug consumption near schools and playgrounds will be prohibited.