While many places have already legalized weed, or are contemplating doing so, France seems to moving backwards:

France will introduce on-the-spot fines nationwide for drug users, particularly targeting cannabis, from September.

The move comes amid concerns about drug-related violence and was announced by PM Jean Castex on a trip to Nice, which has seen weeks of unrest.

The roll-out of fines follows tests in cities such as Rennes and Marseilles.

The €200 ($233; £182) fixed fine will reduce to €150 if paid within 15 days. France is one of the leading consumers of cannabis in Europe.

Legislation on recreational cannabis use varies widely from country to country. Several nations, like Canada, have legalised it while others have policies of minor punishment. But many others impose severe jail terms.

bbc.com

I don’t get it. If they want to put low-level cannabis dealers out of business, then legalize it and sell it in shops, like we see in places in the US or in Canada.

There’s long been talk of legalizing marijuana consumption here in Czech Republic….the only thing holding it back is a bunch of old dinosaurs. It’s pretty much about as close to being officially legal as one can get, but even the shops that sell weed are always worried that the police could swoop in any second and shut them down. Until those old dinosaurs are gone from the political scene or have a change of heart, full legalization is unlikely.