Controversial cabinet decision to legalise cannabis in Germany
The recent cabinet decision to partially legalise cannabis in Germany has triggered a heated debate. Federal Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach (SPD) vehemently defended the draft law, which provides for the possession of up to 25 grams of cannabis for adults without punishment. It also authorises the purchase of up to 50 grams per month in cannabis clubs and the cultivation of up to three cannabis plants at home.
According to Lauterbach, the draft law marks a turning point in cannabis drug policy and aims to combat the black market and drug-related crime. One focus is on the protection of young people, accompanied by an educational campaign about the dangers of cannabis.
However, the initiative has met with resistance, particularly from the CDU/CSU. Alexander Dobrindt, chairman of the CSU parliamentary group in the Bundestag, accused the government of ignoring warnings from experts. Despite the criticism, Lauterbach defended the plan and emphasised that work was being done on a limit for cannabis consumption in road traffic similar to the blood alcohol limit.
Nomos is contributing to the debate with two relevant books:
“Die Sanktionierung des Umgangs mit Alkohol und Cannabis” by Maubach
This work compares the use of alcohol and cannabis from a criminological and normative perspective. It analyses the consumption of both substances and their legal treatment and offers scope for legal considerations.
“The end of cannabis prohibition?” by Pöplau
The study examines the consequences of the legalisation of cannabis in the USA and Canada and outlines implementation proposals for Germany. It emphasises the possible progress in terms of criminal policy through an end to cannabis prohibition.
The publications from Nomos Verlag offer valuable scientific findings and contribute to a well-founded debate on the controversial legalisation of cannabis.
