Germany's Cannabis Law: Mixed Results, Black Market Persists
The first evaluation of Germany's cannabis consumption law has been released, spanning 199 pages and highlighting preliminary findings. While the number of young people seeking addiction counseling has decreased, there are signs of increased acute health issues among adults. Meanwhile, plans for cannabis model projects in cities like Hannover and Frankfurt are on hold, awaiting federal approval.
The report underscores the law's limited success in reducing the black market through cultivation associations, with a gap between members and adult consumers. Medical cannabis and self-cultivated cannabis sharing are currently bridging this gap. Police representatives urge clearer rules and lower carrying limits, but scientists deem immediate action unnecessary.
The German Hemp Association welcomes the evaluation, advocating for the initiation of 'first cannabis model projects' in cities. Ates Gürpinar, drug policy spokesperson for the Left party, evaluates the law positively but criticizes its failure to curb the black market. He calls for enhanced health education, societal acceptance, and stronger legal offers to protect consumers and public health.
The cannabis law's impact on young people's consumption mirrors existing trends, with fewer young people and more young adults using cannabis. As the law's first evaluation concludes, discussions continue on how to better regulate cannabis consumption and reduce the black market in Germany.
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