The National Youth and Civil Protection Panel has officially started
On June 24 and 25, members met for the first time at the Department's headquarters
"This Panel holds significant strategic value for the Department and the entire National Service. By engaging with younger people—who are open to embracing change—we can revitalize civil protection volunteering," with these words, the Head of Department, Fabio Ciciliano, opened the second day of the meeting of the National Youth Panel, which was held at the Department's operational headquarters for the first time. Ciciliano highlighted the evolution of civil protection in recent years, responding to new global challenges such as climate change and humanitarian crises. He emphasized the importance of adopting new strategies and resources to ensure increasingly effective responses.
Twenty-nine volunteers participated in two intense days of activities on June 24 and 25. On the first day, they visited the department rooms where our territory is monitored daily and where emergency operations are managed and coordinated. The volunteers also engaged in group activities to help them get to know one another better. On the second day, the group focused on addressing key questions to initiate their work: What are the experiences and needs of young volunteers? What strategies can enhance the Panel's experiential journey? Why are volunteer organizations struggling to connect with young people?
The discussion on these issues was widely participated in and led to the development of several initial proposals. These were presented at the end of the two-day event and focused on the identity of volunteering, potential initiatives aimed at younger people, components of the volunteering system, and training in organized volunteering. These themes are essential for continuing activities throughout the two-year work period outlined in the Decree that established the Panel.
The Panel will meet monthly via videoconference and gather in person every three months. Additionally, members will take part in thematic events, where they can share their experiences and help disseminate proposals across all components and operational structures of the National Service.