Arild Hermstad, leader of the Green Party (MDG) in Norway, has proposed a pilot project for state-regulated cannabis sales in Oslo.

Hermstad argues that this initiative could significantly reduce the income of criminal gangs, who currently dominate the illegal cannabis market.

The proposal suggests that cannabis could be sold in pharmacies with strict regulations, including a minimum age of 20, residency requirements, and purchase limits.

Hermstad has called on Oslo's city council parties, Høyre and Venstre, to support the proposal and submit an application to the government.

The initiative aims to address youth crime by cutting off a major revenue stream for gangs, contrasting with the current government's approach, which focuses on increased policing.

Despite some political support, the proposal faces opposition from key government figures who argue that legalization could increase drug use.