Russia: Decriminalisation of small amounts

New drug laws took effect on 12 May decriminalising the possession of small amounts of drugs. Under the old law, possession of even a single cannabis cigarette could result in a three-year prison sentence. Under the new law people possessing no more than 10 times the "average single dose" will no longer be charged with a crime, but will be punished with a fine. The limit for marijuana is 20 grams and for hashish 5 grams. Possession of between 10 and 50 times the average single dose is punishable by a larger fine.