Germany welcomes 5 European countries to discuss cannabis legalization

Germany hosted the third edition of a multinational conference on cannabis legalization, bringing together officials from Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland.

Organized by Burkhard Blienert, the German commissioner responsible for drug abuse and drug policy, this conference provided an opportunity to share experiences with regulation from cannabis for non-medical purposes, with a focus on public health, prevention, and the reduction of illicit markets.

An Overview of Germany's Progress Toward Cannabis Legalization

The law German on cannabis use, effective in April, marked a turning point in the country’s approach to drug policy. This law authorizes home cultivation for personal use or in connection with a cannabis cultivation club.

Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, who has championed this reform, described it as a «fundamental change" »in the country's drug policy, highlighting its potential to improve public safety. However, Mr. Lauterbach also emphasized the importance of an evidence-based assessment as Germany ventures into this uncharted territory.".

Mr. Blienert emphasized that prohibition and criminalization had failed to curb widespread cannabis use, as its availability and potency have continued to increase over the years.

«Through evidence-based prevention, better education, and decriminalization, we will significantly reduce the illegal trade and health risks,» he said.

A Collaborative Approach to Legalization in Europe

The Berlin meeting highlighted the importance of international collaboration at a time when more and more European countries are considering cannabis reforms. Malta was the the first to legalize cannabis in 2021, followed by the Luxembourg in 2023. Germany's legalization reinforces this trend and promotes a Pan-European Dialogue on Cannabis Regulation.

Mr. Blienert called for a closer exchange of experiences among countries pursuing similar policies, emphasizing that coordinated efforts could mitigate challenges and amplify successes. Representatives from the participating countries discussed their unique approaches to balancing legalization, public health, and the fight against black-market activities.

Despite these advances, Germany's legalization policy faces internal opposition. Conservative parties, notably the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU), have promised to repeal the reform if they win a majority in the upcoming elections. Kristine Lütke of the FDP criticized their position, calling it ’absurd and out of touch with reality,« while Green Party MP Kirsten Kappert-Gonther highlighted their »irritating obsession« with cannabis policy.

Supporters of legalization argue that the new framework prioritizes safety by offering legal alternatives to the black market, a crucial step in protecting consumers. Licensed cannabis retail stores, legalization advocates say, would further enhance public health and economic benefits.

According to Mr. Blienert, «Decriminalization and legalization are long overdue. What we need now are licensed specialty stores rather than bans.».

The Berlin conference also highlighted how Germany’s legalization efforts align with broader international trends. Last November, German authorities hosted representatives from various countries, including the United States, to discuss cannabis policy. A year earlier, German lawmakers had visited California’s cannabis industry to gain insight into the establishment of a regulated market.