Germany is heading into a pivotal federal election on Sunday, a contest that will have significant implications for the nation's cannabis policy. With the Cannabis Act (CanG) partially legalizing adult-use cannabis in April 2024, the future of the law now hinges on which parties gain power. Some seek to expand legalization, while others are pushing for a rollback, framing the election as a referendum on the country's stance toward cannabis regulation.

Political Party Stances On Cannabis Legalization

The Social Democratic Party (SPD), which has led the coalition government under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, supports legalization efforts within the constraints of European law. Its coalition partners, The Greens and the Free Democratic Party (FDP), have also advocated for cannabis policy reform, though with varying degrees of enthusiasm.

The Greens push for a regulated market with specialized retail shops and international collaboration. The FDP, on the other hand, remains cautious, supporting the current law but refraining from endorsing further expansion. The Left (Die Linke) takes the most progressive stance, advocating for full decriminalization of all drug users and regulated access to substances beyond cannabis.

In stark contrast, the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) have positioned themselves as opponents of legalization. Both parties argue that Germany's partial cannabis legalization has failed to curb illicit sales and advocate for reinstating prohibition. The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) has not explicitly outlined its drug policy stance.

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Advocacy And Industry Reactions

Industry and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the election. The German Cannabis Business Association (BvCW) recently described the election as "decisive for the future of cannabis legalization in Germany" and released a report detailing industry concerns, per ICBC.

Meanwhile, the German Hemp Association (DHV) has endorsed The Left, calling it the most cannabis-friendly party. The organization noted, "The Left, freed from the hesitant Wagenknecht fans, can really take off and take a clear stance."

Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP), an international group of former law enforcement officers advocating for drug policy reform, has warned against a return to prohibition. While it has not endorsed any party, LEAP Germany stated, "We are not making any election recommendations, but for us as the LEAP board, it is absolutely clear that we can only vote for a party that advocates maintaining the progress made and further developing an evidence-based drug policy."

Public Opinion And Potential Outcomes

Public sentiment appears to favor further reform. A December 2024 poll by the German Hemp Association found that 59% of Germans support full cannabis legalization. Despite this, the election outcome remains uncertain, with the CDU and AfD gaining traction in polls. If conservatives take control, a rollback of legalization could be on the table.

Beyond domestic politics, the election will also influence Germany's role in shaping European cannabis policy. The country's landmark move to legalize adult-use cannabis has set a precedent in the European Union, where member states are navigating their own regulatory frameworks. A policy reversal in Germany could have ripple effects across the continent.

With voters set to head to the polls, the election's impact on cannabis policy could be one of the most consequential in recent history. Whether Germany continues along the path of reform or shifts back toward prohibition will depend on the final vote count on Feb. 23.

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