What are the downfalls of the drug policy in the Netherlands?
The Dutch government has a pragmatic policy towards soft drugs (marihuana), rather than one based upon moral considederations. Possession of all drugs, including marihuana, is punishable by law in the Netherlands. However, since it is practically impossible to ban drugs from society, the Netherlands has opted for a policy that decriminalizes the possession for personal use of small amounts of marihuana. Someone found in possession of less than 5 grams will not be prosecuted. Trafficking however, is an altogether different matter and those caught dealing drugs may face severe consequences, unless its a so-called coffee shop selling marihuana under strict conditions and tolerated by municipal authorities. Drug addiction in the Netherlands is a matter of the ministry of Health and not that of Justice. The Dutch government and society in general does not believe in an all-out war on drugs, with its emotional crusade-like overtones. It doesn’t fight the use of drugs, it channels it into man
