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Germany’s Cannabis Use Edged Up in 2024, With No Clear Post‑Legalization Surge

Researchers judge the immediate post‑April change small, not statistically significant.

Overview

  • The ESA 2024 survey reports 9.8% of adults used cannabis in the past year, up from 8.8% in 2021 and 4.5% in 2012.
  • Fieldwork ran August to December 2024, only months after partial legalization, limiting firm conclusions about causal effects.
  • Most users smoke joints (about 89%), and roughly two thirds mix cannabis with tobacco, a practice experts link to higher health risks.
  • About 22% of users reported home growing and 25.7% reported Cannabis Social Club membership, though experts note official approvals suggest far fewer club members.
  • Heavy near‑daily use did not increase versus 2021, and researchers urge continued monitoring through EKOCAN and future ESA waves to assess health and traffic outcomes.