Contribution from February 23, 2024
Joint press release by the Global Marijuana March Dortmund, the Cannabis Social Club Dortmund e.V. and the Dortmund chapter of the German Hemp Association on the partial legalization of cannabis
With the partial legalization of cannabis passed by the Bundestag, Germany is taking a historic step towards a progressive drug policy. The decision, which is expected to come into force in April 2024, has been welcomed with great joy by various local initiatives in Dortmund, including the Global Marijuana March Dortmund, the Cannabis Social Club Dortmund e.V. and the local chapter of the German Hemp Association.
"This first step is a start, but of course it is by no means enough," explains Nadja Reigl, organizer of the Global Marijuana March for over 10 years.
"Real legalization must continue. We will therefore continue to campaign for cannabis to be made accessible as a stimulant. The regulation that has now been adopted, whereby cannabis may only be grown at home or in cannabis social clubs, but may not be purchased commercially, will not suffice once and for all. It does not do justice to the consumer behavior of many people. People who like to drink a glass of wine on special occasions don't want to have to grow grapes first."
Dominik De Marco, Chairman of the Cannabis Social Club Dortmund e.V., explains: "Today's decision in the Bundestag to partially legalize cannabis is an important first step in the right direction. We welcome the fact that politicians are finally recognizing the social reality and paving the way for the controlled distribution of cannabis. However, much remains to be done. Our goal is and remains comprehensive legalization. Only in this way can we combat the black market in the long term, strengthen the protection of young people and prevention and fully exploit the diverse potential of cannabis."
David Müller, founder of the Dortmund chapter of the German Hemp Association, explains: "The first step has now been taken, and I agree with my colleagues. No plant should be illegal, which is why I am also in favor of cannabis as a stimulant. Nevertheless, it is important to continue the debate - also with a special focus on the promotion of cannabis as a medicine and raw material. I therefore appeal to those who criticize it: If we give this plant a chance, it can sustainably improve our lives in a wide variety of areas, which is why we should now go down this path together."
In May 2023, the City Council of Dortmund declared itself a model municipality for the controlled distribution of cannabis. This decision underlines the city's commitment to a modern and health-oriented drug policy.
The partial legalization of cannabis in Germany is a bold step that lays the foundation for a future-oriented drug policy. Dortmund is ready to play an active role in shaping this path and to take advantage of the resulting opportunities for the benefit of users.
