Gedogen

In the context of the law of the Netherlands, the term gedogen (toleration, although gedogen doesn't literally mean toleration. One can describe it the best as toleration in law, but not in culture.) refers to not enforcing certain laws. The Dutch government tolerates some offences. Some things like possessing small amounts of marijuana are formally forbidden by law, but the Dutch government abstains from bringing criminal charges to these offenders. Often these policies are brought about by a tension between treaty obligations and domestic politics. See policies on marijuana and euthanasia for more information. The opposite of gedogen is zero-tolerance.