Weeding them out

It has been used to make clothes and paper, in rituals, and even as a choleraA dangerous infection, still present in some parts of the world that is usually caught from drinking unclean water. cure. HempThe cannabis plant. is thought to be one of the earliest plants ever cultivated by humans - but now, in many countries, you could be fined or even imprisoned for having a few grams in your pocket.

The German government's proposal to legalise cannabis would make it the largest country by population to do so. Only Canada and Uruguay have allowed commercial sale of the drug so far, but it is decriminalisedStop treating something as a criminal offence. in Italy, Spain, and the Czech Republic. 

In Malta, cannabis can legally be grown and owned, and in the Netherlands it can legally be bought and consumed in coffee shops. Germany's plan is more far-reaching and will likely influence drug policy across the EUEuropean Union. An economic and political union of 27 countries. .

The proposed law would allow for non-profit "cannabis clubs" to be established, where members would be able to purchase up to 50g of cannabis per month (under-21s would be limited to 30g per month).

It would also allow adults to grow up to three cannabis plants at home and to possess up to 25g for personal recreational use. 

But the plan has met its fair share of controversy in Germany and beyond. The original bill, which outlined plans to open cannabis cafes in the Dutch style, was substantially watered down due to concerns from the European CommissionThe executive body of the EU, responsible for suggesting new EU laws and overseeing their implementation. .

Cannabis is still a polarising issue. Recent polls suggest that 52% of people support legalisation in the UK. Many feel that criminalising drug use is less productive than preventative measures or support and treatment for addiction.

Moreover, prohibition can be staggeringly expensive. In the US, enforcement of marijuana prohibition costs the taxpayer around $10bn (£8bn) annually. 

Debate rages on about whether prohibitionA total ban. In the US, it refers to the period between 1920 and 1933 in which alcohol was banned. even decreases drug use. Studies suggest that recreational cannabis is used 20% more in US states where it is legal than where it is illegal. But others point out that the Dutch are some of the lowest users of marijuana in Europe despite their famously liberal soft drug policy.

Opponents argue that legalisation would encourage mass consumption of a dangerous, brain-altering drug. Meanwhile, proponents believe we should have access to the same choices we make with alcohol and caffeine.

Should other countries follow? 

Yes: The idea that prohibition deters dangerous drug use has been debunked innumerable times. It is safer to legalise cannabis, which will make the supply safer and could even lead to an overall decrease in use.

No: It is irresponsible to legalise cannabis when we are still not sure about the science. Some say it can trigger psychosisA serious mental health condition in which sufferers are severely detached from reality.; others point to it as a gateway drug. Moreover, many think it could damage brain development in people under 25.

Or... If countries legalise cannabis, they will need to start thinking about other drugs too. Do the same arguments apply to dangerous Class AIn the UK, Class A drugs are considered the most dangerous. drugs?