The Netherlands is internationally known for its coffeeshops, but what many people forget is that this model is also unique within Europe. While some countries maintain a zero tolerance policy, such as France and Sweden, and others have only recently started experimenting with legalization such as Germany and Malta, the Netherlands chose a tolerance policy back in the 1970s.

That policy is not only about freedom, but above all about safety and public health. By selling cannabis through coffeeshops, use is regulated and separated from hard drugs and criminal networks. This makes the Dutch model an interesting example for other countries struggling with their drug policies.

The diversity within Europe

European approaches to cannabis vary widely.

Portugal chose to decriminalize possession of small amounts of drugs, including cannabis, and places strong emphasis on healthcare and support services.

Germany partially legalized cannabis in 2024 and allows cultivation within cannabis social clubs.

Malta introduced a regulatory model in which cannabis clubs may distribute small quantities.

France, on the other hand, continues to enforce one of the strictest prohibition regimes in Europe.

These differences show that there is no single correct approach. However, the Dutch model has been functioning for decades and therefore serves as an interesting blueprint. The question remains how long this will stay a national matter and whether a European standard will eventually emerge.

The role of the coffeeshop

Coffeeshops are more than just places where you buy a joint. They fulfill three key functions that contribute to a safe cannabis culture.

1. A controlled point of access to cannabis

Instead of buying on the street or from unreliable dealers, coffeeshops provide access within an environment governed by rules. Coffeeshops operate under municipal and police supervision and may only sell cannabis under strict conditions. This separates cannabis sales from the illegal market and from hard drugs.

2. Protection of young people

With strict age checks for adults only, minors are prevented from purchasing cannabis. This is a crucial difference compared to the illegal market, where no age control exists at all.

3. Making cannabis use discussable

Clear maximum quantities and house rules help keep consumption manageable and controlled. Coffeeshops also offer a safe, public environment where cannabis use can be discussed openly.

What if coffeeshops did not exist

Without coffeeshops, cannabis use would not disappear. It would simply move entirely into the illegal market, bringing significant risks.

More criminal activity as trade would fall completely into the hands of illegal dealers and criminal organizations.

No oversight meaning there would be no enforcement of quantities or sales conditions and consumption would become invisible.

Reduced safety as users would have no point of contact, no information, and no protection.

Coffeeshops therefore act as a safety valve by making cannabis use visible, manageable, and discussable.

Coffeeshops and product quality

Although the so called backdoor issue has not yet been fully resolved, coffeeshops remain the only place where there is any form of control over sales. They provide transparency in pricing, quantities, and sourcing.

For visitors, this means.

Access to products with a more reliable origin than street alternatives.

An environment where safety and rules apply.

A place where you can ask questions and receive advice on use and dosage.

With the regulated cannabis experiment currently running in several Dutch cities, the supply side is also being addressed. The goal is to make the entire chain from cultivation to sale more transparent, sustainable, and safe.

cannabis culture

The social aspect of cannabis culture

Coffeeshops also contribute to a healthier social and cultural approach to cannabis. By offering a public and social setting, they bring use out of the shadows. This helps to.

Reduce stigma by normalizing and opening up conversations around cannabis use.

Protect young people because a secretive and forbidden status often makes use more attractive.

Encourage responsible use as visitors can ask for advice and learn about dosage and risks.

The future from national to European policy

As more countries within the EU experiment with legalization or regulation, an important question arises. Should cannabis policy eventually be regulated at a European level.

A shared approach could offer clear benefits.

Fewer cross border issues as a uniform policy would reduce cannabis tourism driven purely by legal differences.

Better product control through European quality standards that increase safety.

Coordinated public health campaigns similar to those for alcohol and tobacco.

The Netherlands could play a leading role by demonstrating that a regulated model works. Success of coffeeshops could serve as inspiration for a broader European approach.

The Border putting safety first within cannabis culture

At The Border, we understand that cannabis use is a personal choice. That is why we offer a calm and safe environment where clear rules, a pleasant atmosphere, and a responsible product selection come together.

Our ambition goes beyond being a point of sale. We aim to contribute to an open and healthy cannabis culture. Together, we make cannabis use discussable and safe today in the Netherlands and hopefully across Europe in the future.