One year after partial legalisation in Germany: Trends in cannabis use among young people between 2008 and 2025

Abstract

Background: One year after the partial legalisation of cannabis, the effects on cannabis use among young people in Germany were investigated. Methods: Based on twelve representative studies from 2008 to 2025, changes in the 12-month prevalence of cannabis use among 12- to 17-year-old adolescents and 18- to 25-year-old young adults were presented, and trends over time were estimated. Results: Among female and male adolescents as well as young women, there was no statistically significant change in the 12-month prevalence of cannabis use between 2023 and 2025. In contrast, a statistically significant increase in consumption was observed among young men. However, this does not represent a new development but rather continues a trend that has been observed in this group since 2008. Conclusions: One year after partial legalisation, there was no evidence of an immediate effect on the prevalence of cannabis use among young people in Germany. Further studies should monitor future developments.