Germany has legalized the possession of small amounts of cannabis
FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Marijuana activists in Germany lit celebratory joints Monday as the country legalized possession of small amounts of cannabis for recreational use despite objections from doctors and police.
The German Cannabis Association, which campaigned for the new law, held a "smoke-in" at midnight at the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin's landmark, to mark the law's entry into force. Other public consumption events were planned across the country, including one in front of Cologne Cathedral and others in Hamburg, Regensburg and Dortmund.
Germany has become the third European Union country, after Malta and Luxembourg , to legalise cannabis for personal use. The government argued that legalisation would undermine the criminal trade in the drug, protect against harmful contaminants and give police the ability to prosecute more serious crimes, whilst ensuring protection against use by under-18s.
The new law legalizes adult possession of up to 25 grams (nearly 1 ounce) of marijuana for recreational purposes and allows individuals to grow up to three plants. Use is prohibited within 100 meters (109 yards) of the entrance to a playground or school. This part of the legislation took effect on Monday.
The legislation for medical cannabis in Germany
In recent years, medical cannabis legislation in Germany has made significant progress. The change in public opinion and the recognition of the medical benefits of cannabis have led to Germany adopting one of the most liberal regulations in Europe. This article highlights the most important milestones and regulations in German medical cannabis legislation.
History and Development
The discussion about legalizing cannabis for medical purposes in Germany began in the 1990s. However, a decisive step was not taken until 2017, when the “Law amending narcotics law and other regulations” came into force. This law allowed doctors to prescribe cannabis flowers and extracts to treat certain diseases.
Legal basis
The legal basis for the use of medical cannabis in Germany is the Narcotics Act (BtMG). Following the amendment of the law in 2017, cannabis was included in Annex III of the BtMG, which means that it can be prescribed under certain conditions. Doctors can prescribe cannabis for patients if there is a "necessary medical indication" and other treatment options have been exhausted or are not suitable.
Prescription and use
Doctors in Germany can prescribe medical cannabis if they believe it will help the patient. The most common indications include chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and side effects of chemotherapy. The prescription is usually in the form of dried flowers or extracts that can be inhaled or taken orally.
Role of health insurance companies
A key innovation in the 2017 law was the inclusion of statutory health insurance companies. Patients are entitled to reimbursement of the costs of medical cannabis under certain conditions. However, before the costs are covered, approval must be obtained from the health insurance company, which is usually based on a report from the health insurance company's medical service.
Cultivation and distribution
The cultivation of medical cannabis is strictly regulated in Germany. In 2019, licenses were issued for the first time to German companies that are allowed to cultivate cannabis under state supervision. Until then, Germany had to rely on imports from countries such as Canada and the Netherlands. The Federal Opium Agency, which reports to the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), monitors the cultivation and distribution of medical cannabis.
Current challenges and outlook
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Many doctors are still hesitant to prescribe cannabis, often due to a lack of experience or uncertainty about the legal framework. The supply of medical cannabis is also not yet optimal, and supply shortages occasionally occur.
Overall, however, a positive trend can be seen. Acceptance of medical cannabis is increasing and research in this field is intensifying. Future developments could include further liberalization and an improvement in the supply situation.
Final thoughts on the legal status of cannabis in Germany
Medical cannabis legislation in Germany has made significant progress in recent years. The 2017 law was a milestone that gave many patients access to an important treatment option. Despite existing challenges, it is clear that Germany is on the right track to further optimize the use of medical cannabis and improve patient care. Germany has legalized the possession of small amounts of cannabis. For more information on where to buy cannabis in Germany, see the links below
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