Germany takes historic step on cannabis policy

Germany takes historic step on cannabis policy

Germany, an industrial power that has long been known for its rigor and moderation, has recently taken a historic step in its drug policy. Starting from April 1, 2024, Germany will officially implement the Cannabis Act, marking Germany as the first large economy in Europe to broadly legalize the possession and consumption of cannabis by adults. This policy change not only caused widespread controversy domestically, but also had a profound impact on the international community.

social impact

Reduce black market transactions and criminal activities

The German government believes that legalizing cannabis will help combat illegal black market transactions and reduce health risks caused by exposure to adulterated substances. According to German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, the number of Germans aged 18-25 who smoke marijuana has surged by 100% in the past decade. Marijuana consumption continues to rise. Marijuana that is contaminated or has high levels of psychoactive substances is increasingly flood. After legalization, the government can control the quality and circulation of cannabis through regulation and taxation, thereby reducing criminal activities related to the illegal trade.

Change public perception and attitudes

The legalization of marijuana has also significantly changed public perceptions and attitudes toward marijuana. On the one hand, some people believe that this respects personal freedom and regards smoking marijuana as a normal form of entertainment; on the other hand, opponents worry that it will reduce people's awareness of the harm of marijuana and increase the number of people who smoke marijuana, especially It is young people who may be more susceptible to exposure to cannabis, which can cause harm to their physical and mental health. The German Teachers Association has expressed deep concern about this, fearing that this move will send mixed signals to young people that marijuana is harmless, inducing them to try and become dependent on marijuana for a long time.

Social order and public safety

In addition, the legalization of marijuana has also raised concerns about social order and public safety. Germany's police union said legalization could fuel a black market and demand could quickly exceed legal supply, making the job of law enforcement more difficult. At the same time, gatherings to celebrate the legalization of marijuana may also cause noise pollution, public safety issues, etc.

public reaction

There are clear differences in attitudes among the German public towards the new bill. A YouGov poll showed that 47% of respondents opposed legalizing cannabis, 42% supported it, and 11% were undecided. Supporters argue that legalization would help combat the black market, reduce drug dealing and the number of drug users, and could bring economic benefits such as more jobs and financial gains. It is estimated that after the legalization of cannabis, Germany's related industrial chain can create 27,000 jobs and bring more than 4.7 billion euros in annual financial benefits. However, opponents worry that legalizing marijuana will lead to more young people using marijuana, increase public health problems, and have adverse effects on teenagers.

Changes in the planting market

With the implementation of the cannabis legalization policy, Germany's cannabis cultivation market has also ushered in significant changes. According to the new bill, adults can grow up to three cannabis plants at home, and non-commercial "cannabis clubs" will also be legally opened on July 1 this year, providing members with limited purchases of cannabis. The change has galvanized the growing industry, with sites selling gardening supplies experiencing a surge in traffic and growing equipment kits and cannabis seeds in short supply. Some store owners expect sales to double this year. At the same time, some companies related to cannabis production have also seen business opportunities, such as the German company Synbiotic, whose stock price surged after the passage of the new bill, showing the market's positive expectations for the legalization of cannabis.

in conclusion

Germany’s policy changes to open up the cannabis market have caused widespread controversy and far-reaching impacts in the country. While the government hopes legalization will combat the black market, reduce crime and bring economic benefits, opponents worry the move could exacerbate the problem of cannabis abuse, affect youth health and cause social disorder problems. In the future, the German government needs to strengthen supervision of the cannabis market to ensure that legalization policies can truly achieve the desired results and take measures to prevent potential social and health problems. At the same time, the international community should also pay attention to the impact of the legalization of cannabis in Germany, jointly respond to possible transnational drug problems, and maintain the international legal order.