Why is Thailand making cannabis illegal again? (And what's Coldplay got to do with it?)

Thailand became the first Asian country to make cannabis legal back in June 2022. They are one of the very few nations in the world to let people use the drug recreationally. Farmers switched from wheat to weed and cannabis cafes have popped up all over the country.

However, before even reaching the two-year mark, the Thai government led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s populist Pheu Thai party, looks set to reverse the decision and outlaw the drug.

BBC Thai reporter Tossapol Chaisamritpol explains how the public are feeling about the government’s direction, how it will impact the cannabis business and how the drug is being used in Thai cuisine, including tom kha gai and tom yum soup.

The Netherlands is also reconsidering its relationship with the drug. The popular tourist destination city Amsterdam has long been known for its red light district and cannabis hotspots, despite the fact that the drug is technically illegal in the European country. After complaints from residents about rowdy visitors ruining their home town, the local government has placed restrictions on cannabis and other red light district related activities, including a ‘Stay Away’ campaign targeted at certain tourists.

The BBC’s correspondent in the Netherlands, Anna Holligan, tells us about how life is changing in Amsterdam.

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