The German parliament gave its final green light to the legalization of recreational cannabis on Friday, adopting a flagship law for Olaf Scholz's government, but which is the subject of numerous criticisms.
During a vote in the Bundestag, the text was adopted by 407 votes for and 226 votes against, ratifying legalization from April 1.
This text was the subject of dissension within the tripartite government: resistance appeared within the Social Democrats (SPD, the chancellor's party), while the Greens and the liberals of the FDP, allied to the government, showed themselves rather favorable.
This reform has also given rise to numerous criticisms, particularly from medical associations and the judiciary.
One of the most liberal laws in Europe
The Germans seem rather divided on the question: according to a YouGov poll published Friday, 47% of those questioned are in favor of legalization and 42% are unfavorable.
The reform should, according to the government, make it possible to fight more effectively against the black market, a point contested by the conservative opposition, the police unions and certain SPD deputies.
With this new law, Germany has one of the most liberal laws in Europe, following in the footsteps of Malta and Luxembourg, which legalized recreational cannabis in 2021 and 2023 respectively.
The regulations plan to authorize the purchase of cannabis in limited quantities through non-profit associations.
It will also be possible to grow up to three plants for your own use.
However, the possession and consumption of this drug will remain strictly prohibited for young people under the age of 18.