Following a heated debate over the legalization of cannabis, Germany today introduced controversial new laws decriminalizing the possession of cannabis by adults.

Starting today, April 1, all people over the age of 18 in Germany will be allowed to carry up to 25 grams of dried cannabis, possess up to 50 grams at home, and grow a small amount of the plant.

Households across Germany can grow up to three cannabis plants per person.

The law’s restrictions mean people are not allowed to smoke within sight of schools, sports centers or “pedestrian zones” between 7am and 8pm.

legislation to legalize it Later this summer, access to cannabis will be expanded to allow people to form associations to grow it.

From July 1, growers’ associations or “social clubs” with up to 500 members can be formed, which will be allowed to grow and distribute cannabis on a strictly not-for-profit basis.

The drug is not allowed to be taken on the premises of the association and members must be over 18 years old and resident in Germany.

The idea of ​​cannabis clubs and allowing individuals to grow plants at home is to avoid Germany becoming a hotspot for drug tourism – as these are the only two ways to legally obtain recreational cannabis, as opposed to buying it in places like cafes. Amsterdam is famous for this.

Germany legalized medical cannabis in 2017.

The German government says the aim of legalization is to curb the black market, combat drug-related crime and ensure the safety of the product itself.

However, opposition politicians and medical professionals have criticized the new laws for possible health risks, particularly to young people.

“From our point of view, the current law is a disaster,” Katja Seidel, a therapist at the Brandenburg Tannenhof drug rehabilitation center in Berlin, told AFP.

Erwin Rüddel, an opposition politician from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and former chairman of the health committee, previously told German media that the policy would be “a disaster” and that he would be disappointed if they returned to Germany. political parties will overturn this ruling. government.

Read next

Mr Ruedel called for a Europe-wide decriminalization strategy, including measures such as electronic user registration and expansion of addiction support services, rather than individual countries “experimenting” with cannabis policies.

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has pledged to launch a campaign to educate young people about the health risks of cannabis and strengthen prevention programs.

The Federal Center for Health Education, which is linked to the health ministry, told AFP it was expanding its prevention staff, while Bavaria is testing an online training course aimed at preparing teachers to deal with the topic in classrooms.

Steffen Geyer, a long-time cannabis activist and president of the Association of Cannabis Social Clubs, said he expected the law would mean 180,000 fewer prosecutions next year.

“We will no longer be the black sheep of entertainment. We will be like those who drink wine, chocolate, coffee or tea,” Mr Gayet told Sky News.