In 2023, Germany decided to legalize cannabis for recreational consumption. Originally, the government intended to first legalize non-commercial cannabis cultivation in the form of home cultivation and cannabis clubs, and later commercial cannabis distribution through special dispensaries.
However, due to Germany’s obligation to comply with various international treaties, the government decided on restricted non-profit cultivation and a pilot trial of commercial supply in selected model regions from 2024.
Besides reducing the cannabis black market, German politicians cite the protection of young people from contaminated and overly potent products as the main argument for the national legalization. At the same time, the current draft law excludes under-18-year-olds. Cannabis-using 16- and 17-year-olds, who make up a significant proportion of the cannabis-using population in Germany, must thus continue to resort to the black market, with all the potential risks of illegal drug acquisition.
Appraising the international research findings on the physical and psychological risks of cannabis use for young people, a pragmatic harm reduction approach is proposed, modelled on the German alcohol policy: A strictly regulated cannabis supply system should allow 16- and 17-year-olds to acquire limited amounts of quality-tested, THC-reduced cannabis products. Before purchase, a qualified, youth-credible person must inform youths on possible consumption risks and the principles of risk-competent substance use. As part of a global paradigm shift in cannabis policy, this youth-prevention approach should be considered internationally and in relation to alcohol consumption.