A law on the partial legalization of marijuana comes into effect in Germany

Hundreds of people gathered at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate at midnight to celebrate the passing of the law.

The law stipulates that from April 1, adults will have the right to keep 50 grams of marijuana at home for personal use, but they will be able to have 25 grams of “weed” outside their home.

They will also have the right to grow up to three cannabis plants at home.

On the other hand, from July 1, the so-called marijuana clubs will have the right to collectively grow cannabis for non-commercial purposes.

However, smoking marijuana will be prohibited in public places such as schools and gyms, as well as within 100 meters of such facilities.

In March, the Bundesrat, the upper house of the German parliament, decided not to put obstacles in the way of the law approved by the lower house – the Bundestag – in February.

The German government insists that the ban on marijuana has not had the desired effect and that its consumption has increased.

The purpose of the law is to target the illegal market and reduce health risks.

The opposition conservative Christian Democrats have promised to repeal the law if they come to power after the parliamentary elections in 2025.