Why it matters: Amsterdam’s Red Light District is a famous tourist destination known for its legal cannabis use, but a new ordinance will ban the use of cannabis on the streets starting May 25, citing public nuisance and safety concerns.
What they are saying: The Amsterdam city council passed the law in response to concerns over the area’s “grim” atmosphere and the impact of mass tourism, drug, and alcohol abuse. Violations of the new law will result in a €100 fine.
The big picture: Amsterdam officials want to revamp the image of the Red Light District as a unique cultural heritage and architectural destination, rather than a hub of sex and drugs. The outdoor smoking ban is one initiative in a larger effort to reduce the impact of mass tourism and improve public safety.
What to watch: If the outdoor smoking ban fails to reduce nuisance, the city will consider other measures, including a pickup ban on soft drugs at certain times and a ban on smoking marijuana at coffee shops’ outdoor seating areas.
My take: The Red Light District has long been known for its tolerance of drug use, but this new law signals that public safety concerns can outweigh cultural traditions. It will be interesting to see how tourists and locals alike respond to the changes in the area’s atmosphere.
