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Germany has joined a small group of states and jurisdictions that have legalized cannabis, after the Bundestag passed a law allowing individuals and voluntary associations to cultivate and possess limited amounts of the drug.
The law, which was approved by Chancellor Olaf Scholz's three-party coalition, legalizes the cultivation of up to three plants for private use and the possession of 25 grams of cannabis.
The production of cannabis on a large scale, but without commercial purposes, will be allowed for members of so-called cannabis clubs. These clubs cannot have more than 500 members and all must be of legal age. Only club members can consume their products.
"We have two goals: to suppress the black market and to improve the protection of children and young people," said the Minister of Health, Karl Lauterbach, at the start of the debate in Parliament.
During the debate, the opposition accused the Minister of Health of promoting drug use.
"You are claiming in all seriousness that by legalizing more drugs, you could stop young people from using them," said Christian Democratic lawmaker Tino Sorge.
"That's the most stupid thing I've ever heard."
Around 4.5 million Germans are estimated to use cannabis.
Germany becomes the ninth country to legalize the recreational use of this drug, which is also legal in some states of the United States and Australia.
Many states allow cannabis to be used for health purposes.
Cannabis remains illegal for minors and the drug cannot be consumed near schools and playgrounds.
The legislation is expected to be voted on March 22 in the Upper House of the German Parliament. From April 1, the permit for the cultivation and possession of small amounts of this drug for personal use for adults is expected to enter into force, while the non-commercial cultivation by cannabis clubs will be legal from June 1./ REL
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