As of today, smoking marijuana on the street in the so-called “red light district” of Amsterdam is no longer allowed. Anyone who does not comply with the new rules risks a fine of 100 euros. Marijuana use remains permitted indoors and on cafe terraces. The ban is part of a broader plan by centre-left Mayor Femke Halsema to limit the fallout from some of the problems the city, which is also a tourism destination linked to marijuana use and legal prostitution, is struggling with for some time and improving so his quality of life.
For example, a few weeks ago a communication campaign was launched to limit the flow of tourists to the city, who contribute little to the local economy and, above all, cause problems and inconvenience to residents. There is also an ongoing discussion about the possibility of moving the “red light district” to another place where many sex workers work and which attracts thousands of people every day, also in this case with various problems of public order and the people working there.
Finally, another communication campaign aimed at those already in the city was launched with similar goals: it’s called “How to Amsterdam” and consists of a series of online tips, for example on the ban on urinating in public, on the Risks from alcohol abuse, loud noises and illegal drug purchases.
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