Germany’s path to legalizing cannabis is facing obstacles due to bureaucracy imposed by the EU and disagreements in the Bundestag. The country has approved its first marijuana social club, but other regions are less enthusiastic about granting permits. Can tourists buy weed in Germany? As of now, it is not possible for foreigners or tourists to legally purchase cannabis in the country. Membership in social clubs is heavily regulated, with residency being a prerequisite. The most significant issue facing legalization in Germany has been the red tape of EU law, leading to the initiative being divided into several stages. Plans for commercial sales and inclusion of tourists in these clubs are still uncertain.
Germany is the third country in Europe to legalize recreational marijuana after Malta and Luxembourg. However, the rules around cannabis use are still unclear in the country. While the sale and use of small amounts of marijuana and hashish are allowed in the Netherlands, Germany is hesitating to follow suit due to ongoing discussions around legalization. The launch of the first social club in Germany has been met with divided opinions from advocates and stakeholders in the cannabis world. The government’s plan for commercial sales is eagerly awaited, as the legalisation has been a topic of heated debate in parliament and beyond.
Germany’s legalisation efforts have faced opposition from various quarters, with debates revolving around the pros and cons of easier access to the drug. While the ruling three-party coalition has legalized cultivating up to three plants for private consumption and possession of limited amounts of cannabis, opposition politicians have raised concerns about promoting drug use. Amendments to the law have been made to address issues related to impaired driving and give individual states more authority over cannabis cultivation limits. These changes were introduced to prevent a potential delay in the implementation of the legalisation, following resistance from the Federal Council.
Global support for legalisation in Germany is limited, with the United Nations’ drug control body expressing reservations about legalizing marijuana for non-medical or scientific purposes. Germany had taken a step towards legalisation in 2022, with lawmakers visiting California cannabis businesses to inform their approach. The commercial sales plan is expected to be released in the second pillar of the law, although the timeline for this remains uncertain. With international treaties discouraging extensive legalization, Germany is unlikely to become a hotspot for weed tourism anytime soon.
Overall, Germany’s journey towards legalising cannabis is facing challenges due to bureaucratic hurdles and internal disagreements. The approval of the first marijuana social club marks a significant development, but the road ahead is uncertain. With restrictions in place for tourists and ongoing debates within parliament, the future of cannabis in Germany remains unclear. Despite the government’s efforts to crack down on the black market and protect children and young people, opposition to the legalisation remains strong. As Germany navigates the complexities of EU law and international treaties, the prospect of becoming a destination for weed tourism seems distant.
