German Citizens Show Strong Support for Cannabis Legalization, Poll Reveals

A new poll reveals that nearly 60% of German citizens favor the broader legalization of cannabis, signaling a significant shift in public opinion. While personal cannabis use is permitted, Germany has yet to implement a regulated marketplace—a decision that has fueled both political and public debate.

Support for Legalization Reaches Record High

The German Hemp Association’s latest poll, conducted by Infratest Dimap, found 59% of respondents in favor of legalizing cannabis in a regulated manner, marking the highest approval rate in the survey’s decade-long history. The question presented to participants mirrored models seen in Canada and several U.S. states, asking whether they supported the sale of cannabis in specialty stores under regulation.

The results highlight a growing appetite among Germans for more comprehensive cannabis policies. The support spans diverse demographics but is notably strongest among voters from left-wing political parties, with 78% of Green Party and 63% of Social Democratic Party (SPD) voters backing the reforms.

Divergence Along Party Lines

Despite widespread public approval, opinions remain divided along political lines. Voters aligned with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union in Bavaria (CSU) were less enthusiastic, with only 46% in support of broader legalization. These findings underline a significant ideological gap between conservative and progressive blocs in Germany.

Among the dissenters, 37% favor reinstating penalties for personal possession, while 41% oppose allowing home cultivation of cannabis. However, a modest majority—56%—express support for reforms that permit individuals to grow up to three cannabis plants for personal use.

The Current Legal Framework

As of April 1, German citizens are allowed to possess and consume cannabis for personal use. However, the country has stopped short of creating a legal framework for retail sales, a critical component of cannabis reform efforts in other countries.

The absence of a regulated market has left many questions unanswered, including those related to public health, economic opportunities, and law enforcement. Advocates argue that establishing a marketplace could address these challenges by providing a controlled environment for sales and consumption while generating tax revenue.

How Germany Compares Globally

Germany’s measured approach contrasts sharply with policies in countries like Canada, where cannabis has been fully legalized for adult use since 2018, and U.S. states like California and Colorado, which have well-established retail markets. Advocates in Germany point to these international models as evidence of the economic and social benefits of a regulated system.

However, detractors caution against rushing into broader legalization, citing concerns over public safety and potential misuse. The polarized opinions underscore the complexity of cannabis reform in a nation with diverse cultural and political perspectives.

Public Sentiment and the Road Ahead

While the poll demonstrates robust public support for legalizing cannabis in a regulated manner, it also highlights areas where consensus is lacking.

Key findings from the poll include:

• 59% of respondents favor legalization in specialty stores, akin to systems in Canada and parts of the U.S.
• 78% of Green Party voters and 63% of SPD voters back broader legalization, compared to 46% of CDU/CSU supporters.
• 38% of respondents oppose the proposal outright, with a notable subset supporting stricter controls on possession and cultivation.

With momentum growing, the question remains: Will the German government revisit its cautious stance on cannabis policy? Political observers and advocates are watching closely as the conversation continues to evolve.