Contemplated Alterations under Debate
In a significant shift, Germany has partially legalized cannabis for adult personal use as of August 2025. Adults aged 18 and over can now legally possess up to 25 grams of cannabis in public and up to 50 grams at home. They are also allowed to cultivate up to 3 plants at home for personal use.
However, the landscape for recreational cannabis is still evolving. Retail sales are not widely established yet, with access primarily through licensed cannabis clubs that require membership and adhere to strict regulations for youth protection, quality control, and secure distribution.
Medical cannabis, which has been legal since 2017, requires a prescription from a doctor. Recent amendments to medical cannabis law aim to strengthen medical care by requiring personal contact with doctors for cannabis flower prescriptions, banning shipping of cannabis flowers to consumers, and imposing penalties for violations.
Public use is restricted, with smoking bans near schools, playgrounds, and pedestrian zones during daytime hours to protect minors and public health. Cannabis with low THC content (CBD under 0.2%) is legal and widely available.
The future of cannabis in Germany is under active evaluation through the federal government's Evaluation of the Consumer Cannabis Act (EKOCAN), which examines impacts on youth protection, health, and cannabis-related crime. The government is also considering adjustments at the EU level to align German laws with EU and international treaties.
The legal framework reflects Germany’s cautious approach to modernization of cannabis policy, with ongoing adjustments expected. The majority of the population seems to be in favor of controlled liberalization, but the situation in Wuppertal regarding the establishment of cultivation associations and the control of regulations is unclear.
Despite these changes, driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal and subject to strict penalties. The discussion about the legalization of cannabis includes topics such as preventing minors from accessing cannabis, controlling high THC content varieties, and providing accurate information.
There are calls from conservative parts of the CDU and AfD to restrict or reverse the new cannabis laws due to health risks, growing addiction behavior, and effects on traffic safety. However, many cities, including Wuppertal, are interested in a regulated sales model.
Adults are allowed to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis and cultivate three plants at home. Local pharmacies and medical practices are expressing interest in further training to better advise patients about cannabis. The University of Wuppertal could potentially play a significant role in future research projects or information development related to cannabis.
For those seeking a prescription for cannabis for health reasons, research and discussions with a doctor familiar with the topic are necessary. There are doctors who specialize in cannabis treatments. Online portals offer tips for obtaining a prescription for cannabis, including information about required documents and cost coverage. Self-help groups for pain patients and other conditions exchange information about their experiences with cannabis.
It's important to note that violations of these rules may result in fines. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, it's crucial for individuals to stay informed and adhere to the regulations in place.
- The evolution of the cannabis landscape in Germany includes policy-and-legislation discussions, as the federal government evaluates impacts on health, youth protection, and cannabis-related crime.
- The University of Wuppertal could become involved in future research projects or information development related to science and mental-health aspects of cannabis.
3.general-news reports indicate that there are ongoing debates among political parties regarding the legalized use of cannabis, with conservative groups raising concerns about health risks, growing addiction behavior, and effects on traffic safety.
