Germany today took another step towards the legalization of cannabis for recreational purposes with the adoption by the cabinet of the relevant bill, which will be accompanied by a prevention campaign aimed at young people.

At a press conference in Berlin, German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach called the bill “a turning point in a sadly failed cannabis policy.”

“No one should misunderstand the law. The use of cannabis will be legalized. However, it remains dangerous”, the minister also said in a joint statement of his ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture. “The protection of children and young people is a central component of the whole bill,” he added.

According to the bill, which must now be debated and voted on by parliament, anyone over the age of 18 will be able to buy and possess up to 25 grams of cannabis.

Germany will thus acquire one of the most liberal legislations in Europefollowing Malta and Luxembourg, which legalized recreational cannabis in 2021 and 2023 respectively.

Social Democrat Olaf Solz’s original coalition government plan with the Greens and Liberals went much further, but was revised in the face of European Union reservations.

The reform has also drawn criticism from the opposition, as well as police and judicial unions, who say it will not end smuggling, which is one of its aims. Supporters hope it will curb the black market, protect users from tainted cannabis and reduce the workload of the justice system.

Under this bill, it will also be possible to grow up to three cannabis plants for personal use.

The new legislation foresees the creation of non-profit associations whose adult members – their number is limited to 500 – will be able to cultivate the plant under the supervision of public authorities only to consume it themselves.

The activity of these “Cannabis Social Clubs” – as they were called – will be subject to rules: they will only be able to supply their members and a maximum of 50 grams per month. For young people from 18 to 21 years old, it will be a little less: 30 grams per month. These clubs will be controlled by public authorities.

Cannabis consumption will not be allowed inside these clubs or within 200 meters of them, as well as around schools, playgrounds, sports grounds and youth associations.

Health Minister Karl Lauterbach also plans to carry out a major awareness campaign aimed at young people about the dangers of cannabis to the brain, “which are particularly great when it (the brain) is in a developing phase.”

“For young people (s.s.: under 18 years old) consumption remains prohibited and for young adults (up to 21 years old) it is limited”, reminded the minister in a statement.

The bill is likely to undergo changes when it is debated in Germany’s lower house, the Bundestag, after the summer recess. Germany’s upper house of parliament, the Bundesrat, is also due to debate the bill, although the health ministry said it does not need the latter’s approval.