Text Youssef el Khattabi
WUR is incredibly diverse, with hundreds of internationals working and studying here. In the Meanwhile in column, we ask one of them to comment on certain events in their home country. This time, we hear from International Land and Water Management BSc student Toby Otto (21) from Germany, with his insights on Germany’s recent move to legalize cannabis cultivation
Otto: ‘The decision to legalize cannabis in Germany was not unexpected, as discussions had been ongoing since the 2021 elections, yet its actual implementation came as a surprise to many. It’s a significant shift that reflects the changing attitudes towards cannabis use, both culturally and legally, in Germany.
Historically, Germany has been conservative regarding drug laws, which makes this a notable liberal shift. The law’s implementation is a step towards more open discussions about drug use and legality. It’s difficult to predict exactly how political trends will swing, but it’s likely that cannabis legalization will eventually become a less controversial topic.
Regarding the cultural aspect, cannabis was already widely accessible and somewhat normalized among younger people in Germany. Now, legal changes may foster more open conversations about cannabis use, even within families.
My circle, mainly young adults and students, welcomes the change. It removes the fear of legal repercussions for an activity that is already commonplace, and it potentially offers a safer, regulated environment for cannabis consumption. However, politically there’s significant opposition, and future elections could pivot the legal landscape again.
If I were to advise German policymakers, I’d emphasize the importance of keeping the law adaptive and responsive to societal and cultural feedback. It’s crucial not to backtrack on progress made towards decriminalization and destigmatization, especially considering the broader social benefits like reduced incarceration rates.
Ultimately, cannabis legalization is a complex topic, but it’s one that needs practical regulation and open dialogue to integrate it successfully into society. With time, I believe it will become just another aspect of daily life, allowing us to focus on more pressing societal issues.’
