Can cannabis be banned again? Take back legalization?

The legalization of cannabis in Germany remains a hotly debated topic – between political U-turns, legal issues and a still complicated supply situation. In our new YouTube video, we take a look at the latest developments and explain why even former Health Minister Karl Lauterbach is suddenly taking a different direction.

Reversal instead of progress: new debate about the BtMG
Probably the most controversial point: there are initial legal discussions about a possible reversal of legalization. The background to this is the question of whether cannabis could soon be reintroduced into the Narcotics Act (BtMG). Former political decision-makers such as Karl Lauterbach are suddenly expressing more cautious opinions – and thus triggering new legal debates.

Growing political pressure

Since partial legalization came into force in April 2024, the supply situation has become more complex. Many growers’ associations are struggling with permits, requirements and a lack of infrastructure. The question of whether the state was adequately prepared is still unanswered. At the same time, we are seeing the first attempts to reinterpret legal leeway – it cannot be ruled out that existing regulations will be attacked again.

Reversal legally conceivable
BtMG discussion is back on the agenda
Lauterbach rows back

Why does legalization fail in practice?
Daniela Behrens, Minister of Health in Lower Saxony, puts it in a nutshell in the video: the legal supply is not working. Although cannabis is officially no longer a criminal offense, access remains difficult. What is particularly striking is that even legal cultivation associations are unable to meet the actual demand from consumers. Pharmacies have supply problems and the black market remains active.

Growers’ associations at the limit

Whether it’s space, staff or permits – many growers’ associations are simply overwhelmed by the requirements. At the same time, the pressure is increasing due to demands from patients, consumers and authorities. The result:

Neither legally compliant quantities nor consistent quality can be supplied.

Once again at a glance:

Legal supply not comprehensive
Growers’ associations do not cover demand
Patients waiting for deliveries

What does the new federal government want?

Häufig von anderen gelesen

What positions do the SPD and CDU take? What legal developments regarding personal possession, driving licenses and social clubs are in the pipeline?

Legalization a failure? Or just a step backwards?

It remains to be seen whether Germany will back down or whether legalization will now be realistically improved. One thing is clear: the current situation is not practicable for either consumers or medical patients. Anyone who wants to use cannabis legally faces too many hurdles. The next few months will show whether a second chapter of the reform will be opened – or whether the legalization project will fail.

Future of legalization remains open
Supply must be improved
Withdrawing the reform would be fatal