The Dutch Approach: Normalization of Drug Problems

Abstract

Dutch drug policy has received widespread but mostly critical attention. Criticisms arise in part from a misunderstanding of the policy, which is perceived to be more permissive than it actually is. In fact, Dutch drug laws are similar to those of other western countries, although they are enforced with more flexibility in order to minimize harmful effects on drug users. Dutch policy relies heavily on prevention, as well as treatment of drug problems. Although available statistics suggest that these policies are relatively successful in the Netherlands, careful consideration must be given to situational variables in any attempts to adopt them elsewhere.