Hundreds of cannabis enthusiasts marched through Berlin during the 28th Hemp Parade, advocating for more extensive cannabis legalization. The event was marked by a festive yet peaceful atmosphere.
Berlin’s Hemp Parade calls for comprehensive cannabis legalization
The 28th annual Hemp Parade in Berlin drew hundreds of participants who called for further legalization of cannabis. The demonstration began in the afternoon, with police estimating around 650 attendees. The atmosphere was lively but calm, as demonstrators openly smoked their joints—a scene made possible by the partial legalization of cannabis earlier this year, which allows public consumption for those over 18 under certain conditions.
The march kicked off at the Neptunbrunnen at Alexanderplatz under the slogan “Legalization, but correctly!” Speakers at the event urged a faster implementation of the cannabis law that came into effect in April. Among the speakers was a police officer who shared her perspective on the matter, stating, “My personal opinion is that it makes no sense to pursue cannabis users. We have enough to do and could better utilize our resources if we didn’t have to control cannabis users.”
The main focus of this year’s Hemp Parade was the cannabis law, which the organizers criticized as “insufficient.” They called for the establishment of functioning cannabis clubs and the implementation of the law’s so-called Pillar 2, which envisions model projects for cannabis distribution in specialized stores. Currently, distribution is limited to cannabis clubs where consumers must be members.
Cannabis possession and consumption regulations
As of April 1 this year, the possession of certain amounts of cannabis, private cultivation, and public consumption are allowed nationwide for individuals aged 18 and over, with restrictions. People can carry up to 25 grams in public or store up to 50 grams at home. Additionally, three plants are permitted for cultivation in private residences. Violations of these regulations can result in hefty fines.
