Italy peace campaign collects 50,000 signatures for nonviolent defense law

The “Un’altra difesa è possibile” (Another defense is possible) campaign has surpassed 50,000 signatures, meeting the threshold required to bring a popular initiative law to the Italian Parliament. The proposal seeks to establish a Department of Unarmed and Nonviolent Civil Defense under the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.

The initiative aims to coordinate existing resources—such as universal civil service, civil protection, and peace corps—into a unified strategy focused on conflict prevention, mediation, and grassroots diplomacy. The model is presented as a constitutional alternative to military defense, aligning with Articles 11 and 52 of the Italian Constitution.

Key components of the proposal include the creation of a research institute for peace and disarmament, as well as a dedicated national fund that could be supported by the “six per mille” tax option. Supporters, including Caritas Ambrosiana, emphasize that the goal is to provide a professionalized civilian force capable of international cooperation and conflict prevention, rather than relying solely on military instruments.