Collaboration to Close Pusher Street Receives Award

A cross-sector collaboration between Christiania and several authorities has been awarded the 2025 Den Kriminalpræventive Pris (Crime Prevention Award) . The award was presented on Wednesday by Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard, who also granted DKK 50,000 to support continued crime prevention efforts.

The collaboration aims to address the crime and insecurity that have long characterized Pusher Street, which has historically been known for organized hash trade and violence. The initiative was launched in 2023 following an escalation of the situation in the area and includes participation from, among others, the Christiania Foundation, the City of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Police, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing, and the Ministry of Justice.

As a result of joint efforts, hash stalls have been closed, and the area has been opened up with new shops and activities such as flea markets and an ice rink. According to the working group, the initiative has led to fewer reports of violence and drug sales, as well as a decline in arrests, charges, and pre-trial detentions—particularly among young people under 18. Safety in the district has also increased significantly.

The Danish Crime Prevention Council highlights the initiative as an example of how collaboration across professions and organizations can contribute to crime prevention and increased public safety. The award recognizes the broad collaboration and urban planning efforts that have significantly transformed the area and helped prevent at-risk youth from becoming involved in crime at Christiania.