Berlin to have its own pilot project for the legal sale of cannabis

The districts of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg and Neukölln In Berlin, officials were granted the right to launch a pilot project aimed at studying the effects of the controlled distribution of cannabis for recreational use.

In collaboration with Sanity Group and theHumboldt University of Berlin, this scientific initiative aims to develop a responsible cannabis policy in Germany.

Sanity Group is already overseeing a pilot project in Switzerland, the Grashaus Project.

Objectives and Framework of the Model Project

The primary objective of the Berlin project is to examine the conditions under which the Cannabis may be distributed to consumers for recreational use at regulated retail outlets. According to Clara Herrmann, mayor of the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district, the results will serve as the basis for implementing a policy that ensures quality-controlled products while incorporating effective measures for prevention and support for people with substance use disorders.

Participants who live in these districts and meet the health and residency requirements will be able to legally purchase cannabis at selected retail locations. To ensure comprehensive data collection, participants must regularly take part in scientific surveys.

It is strictly prohibited to transfer the purchased products to other people; any violation will result in immediate exclusion from the study. A control group, consisting of members of a local cannabis social club, will also support research.

The five-year project calls for specialized staff to be stationed at retail locations to address consumer concerns. These qualified professionals will monitor participants to identify any potentially harmful behaviors and refer them to counseling services if necessary. In addition, a prevention officer and a medical supervisor will monitor the study’s progress.

A portion of the revenue generated from cannabis sales will be used to fund prevention and support initiatives for people with substance use disorders in the districts, so that the community benefits directly from the project's results.

The Federal Government's Involvement in Cannabis Research

At the national level, the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) has strengthened its commitment to cannabis research

Pursuant to the’Ordinance on Scientific Expertise Regarding Cannabis for Consumers, recently published, the’Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food (BLE) will oversee the review and follow-up of research proposals related to the recreational cannabis and industrial hemp.

This decision marks a shift from the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), which will now focus solely on the medical cannabis research.

Federal Minister Cem Özdemir emphasized the importance of research in combating the black market, improving preventive health care, and promoting an evidence-based debate on cannabis policy.

The ordinance allows universities and private companies to submit applications, provided they meet the strict criteria set forth in the recreational cannabis law. The approved projects will provide a better understanding of the impact of cannabis on society and health, in line with Germany’s broader legalization strategy.

Challenges remain

Despite the progressive intentions behind these initiatives, challenges remain. Hannes Rehfeldt, Neukölln district councilor for social affairs and health, expressed his concerns regarding the law on cannabis use, calling it ill-conceived.

He criticized the lack of federal funding for prevention and assistance for drug addicts, noting that partial legalization could inadvertently fuel organized crime.

«It is essential that people who legally use cannabis be able to access it safely and not have to rely on the dangerous black market,» Mr. Rehfeldt noted.