Legalization of Cannabis from Midnight on the 1st
Adults Allowed to Possess up to 25g
Government States "Cannabis Still Poses Risks"
In front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, smokers gathered and simultaneously smoked marijuana. Although thick smoke obscured the surroundings, the police did not intervene. This is because, starting from midnight on the 1st (local time), the cultivation and possession of marijuana have been legalized in Germany.
Marijuana was once included in Germany's list of prohibited substances under the Narcotics Act, but it has been partially permitted from this day forward. The German government will now allow adults to possess up to 25 grams of marijuana and cultivate up to three marijuana plants. Additionally, up to seven seeds and five cuttings are permitted.
The reason the German government legalized marijuana possession is to bring marijuana distributed in the black market into the open. The so-called 'marijuana social clubs' are also allowed to distribute marijuana, and these clubs can cultivate marijuana for their members.
The image related to smoking and quitting smoking is unrelated to the article content. Photo by Jo Yongjun jun21@
Germany had previously partially permitted marijuana use by implementing the Medical Marijuana Act in March 2017. However, at that time, it was only used medically for certain critically ill patients. Since then, debates over marijuana legalization in German society have intensified. Nevertheless, the government is still reported to be concerned about the risks of marijuana.
Karl Lauterbach, Germany's Minister of Health, explained at a press conference, "We will pursue controlled legalization to address unresolved issues such as increased marijuana consumption, drug crimes, and the black market," adding, "This is, regrettably, a turning point from a failed marijuana policy."
He also warned, "Although legalized, marijuana remains dangerous," and emphasized, "No one should misunderstand this legislation." The measure is primarily intended to prevent the formation of a black market and related crimes due to marijuana.
The opposition conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and some medical experts have expressed concerns that the bill could increase the risks associated with marijuana. Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, stated that if his party wins the general election in 2025, they will immediately repeal the law.
About 1,500 marijuana smokers in Germany gathered in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin at midnight on the 1st, when the law took effect, to perform a "group smoking" demonstration. Police were deployed at the scene but could not stop them.
Meanwhile, smoking marijuana remains prohibited within a 100-meter radius of schools and sports facilities. There is also a restriction that smoking is not allowed on pedestrian-only roads before 8 p.m.
Koreans residing in Germany are still prohibited from inhaling marijuana. Earlier, the Korean Embassy in Germany posted a "Notice on Precautions Regarding Partial Legalization of Marijuana in Germany" on the 26th of last month, making it clear that Koreans using marijuana are subject to punishment. The embassy urged, "Please be cautious as even a single use of marijuana can be detected through various tests."
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