A preliminary scientific evaluation of Germany’s cannabis law has prompted calls for adjustments to the current partial legalization. Hendrik Streeck, the Federal Government’s Drug Commissioner, has voiced concerns regarding certain developments observed since the law’s implementation.
Streeck acknowledged that assessing the long-term impact of such legislation requires considerable time, as societal shifts often manifest gradually. However, he expressed worry over emerging issues related to youth protection. Reports suggest increased accessibility of cannabis among young people, coupled with a decrease in early intervention programs. This reduction in interventions means that adolescents consuming cannabis – a practice known to be detrimental to their health – are less likely to receive support, as their cases are now less frequently processed through juvenile courts.
Adding to these concerns, the potency of cannabis has significantly increased. The THC content in cannabis buds is now reportedly up to 30 times higher than in the past, potentially leading to additional health complications. Simultaneously, the number of acute health incidents directly linked to cannabis consumption is rising.
Furthermore, Streeck noted a concerning expansion of imports and a continued prevalence of the black market for medicinal cannabis, indicating the law has yet to achieve its intended goals. He attributed this, in part, to excessively high permitted possession limits and a lenient self-cultivation regulation which appears to be fueling the black market rather than curbing it.
Despite these challenges, preliminary data indicates no significant surge in cannabis consumption among youth or adults. The Drug Commissioner emphasized the urgent need for greater clarity, enforceability and a stronger focus on prevention and support services, particularly for young people, to ensure the law’s trajectory moves in a more positive direction. The recent investigation also confirmed a continued decline in consumption among adolescents.