German politicians back 'cannabis clubs' after legalising the drug

Around 4.5 million Germans smoke weed and usage among 18 to 25-year-olds has doubled

Germany has passed a new law to allow the recreational use of cannabis, paving the way for clubs where up to 500 smokers can gather.

Under the legislation, over-18s will be allowed to possess substantial amounts of the drug, but strict rules make it difficult to buy.

Smoking weed in many public spaces will become legal from April 1.

The law passed by Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s ruling three-party coalition in the Bundestag, Germany’s parliament, legalises cultivating up to three plants for private consumption.

Possessing up to 25 grams, equivalent to dozens of strong joints, is to be allowed in public spaces.

In private homes, the legal limit will be 50g.

Larger-scale, but still non-commercial, cannabis production will be allowed for members of so-called cannabis clubs with no more than 500 members.

All guests must be adults and only club members can consume their product.

Already in some parts of Berlin, police often turn a blind eye to smoking in public, although possession of the drug for recreational use is illegal and can be prosecuted.

Some 4.5 million Germans are estimated to use cannabis.

Usage among 18 and 25-year-olds has doubled in the past 10 years, health minister Karl Lauterbach said.

He wants to undermine the black market and protect smokers from contaminated cannabis and organised crime gangs.

Mr Lauterbach said at the start of a rowdy debate, where the opposition accused him of promoting drug use: “We have two goals: to crack down on the black market and improved protection of children and young people.”

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German health minister Karl Lauterbach speaks to the media
AFP via Getty Images

Christian Democrat legislator Tino Sorge replied: “You are asserting in all seriousness that by legalising more drugs we will contain drug use among young people.

“That is the most stupid thing I’ve ever heard.”

But Mr Lauterbach said not fixing “a failed drug policy” amounted to “sticking our heads in the sand”.

Germany becomes the ninth country to legalise recreational use of the drug, which is also legal in some sub-national jurisdictions in the United States and Australia.

Many more countries allow its medical use as a painkiller. Cannabis remains illegal for minors as does consuming it near schools and playgrounds.

Some legislators questioned whether the new regulations would have much impact on dealing, since those who are unwilling to grow their own cannabis or join a cannabis club may still prefer to buy the drug.

After a stormy session on Friday in the Bundestag, the vote was eventually passed by 407 votes to 226.

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