Italy: Nonviolent civil defense law reaches signature quorum

A popular initiative law proposal to establish a non-armed and nonviolent Department of Civil Defense has reached the required 50,000 signatures in Italy. The campaign, titled ‘Un’altra difesa è possibile’ (Another defense is possible), was promoted by CNESC, Rete Italiana Pace e Disarmo, and Sbilanciamoci!.

The proposal seeks to shift the security paradigm from military armament toward human security, focusing on conflict prevention, mediation, cooperation, and disarmament. If implemented, the proposed Department would operate under the Presidency of the Council and integrate existing entities such as the Universal Civil Service and Civil Protection into a unified strategy.

Additional components of the bill include the creation of a research institute for peace and disarmament and a dedicated national fund, which could be supported by a portion of the ‘six per thousand’ tax option. The signatures will be formally deposited in the Senate following the conclusion of the collection period on September 18, marking the start of the parliamentary process.