The German parliament has backed a new law to allow the recreational use of cannabis.
Under the law, over-18s in Germany will be allowed to possess substantial amounts of cannabis, but strict rules will make it difficult to buy the drug.
Smoking cannabis in many public spaces will become legal from 1 April.
Possession of up to 25g, equivalent to dozens of strong joints, is to be allowed in public spaces. In private homes the legal limit will be 50g.
Already police in some parts of Germany, such as Berlin, often turn a blind eye to smoking in public, although possession of the drug for recreational use is illegal and can be prosecuted. Use of the drug among young people has been soaring for years despite the existing law, says Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, who is instigating the reforms.
On the other hand, there are places, where it’s so easy to get weed and other drugs even today and delivered directly to your doorstep. In those places it may be easier to stick with your dealer for procurement and enjoy the benefit of decriminalization of possession and consumption than going through the hassle of joining a cannabis club. This in turn would negate some.of the discussed benefits of legalization.