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Germany's Cannabis Law Faces Scrutiny After One Year

The partial legalization has reduced criminal cases but struggles with enforcement, black market persistence, and divided public opinion.

Overview

  • The cannabis law, effective since April 2024, allows adults to possess limited amounts and grow up to three plants but faces criticism for its complexity and enforcement challenges.
  • Criminal offenses related to cannabis have significantly decreased, with some regions reporting drops of up to 50%, but the black market remains active due to insufficient legal supply channels.
  • Delays in licensing Cannabis Social Clubs have hindered their ability to meet demand, with only a fraction of applications approved nationwide.
  • Public opinion remains divided, with 50% viewing the legalization negatively, though only 38% support a return to full prohibition.
  • The CSU is advocating for a repeal of the law, citing public health and traffic safety concerns, while the federal government plans an official evaluation of its impact later this year.