by MK
Authorities in Friuli Venezia Giulia have launched a pilot initiative aimed at improving safety in nightlife districts, beginning this month in Trieste and potentially expanding to other periods of high visitor activity.
The program, presented Thursday by regional officials, is designed to address concerns over petty crime and disorder associated with busy nightlife areas while allowing police forces to focus on their core public safety duties. The initiative was developed through a partnership between the regional government, local prefectures and police authorities, and FIPE, Italy’s federation of public establishments.
Over the remaining weekends in June, between 10 and 12 trained stewards will patrol several of Trieste’s busiest nightlife zones from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., including the Canal Grande area, Cavana, Piazza Venezia and surrounding districts. The stewards will be responsible for monitoring and deterrence only and will have no law enforcement powers. Any incidents requiring intervention will be reported directly to police through a dedicated communication channel.
Officials described the project as a temporary test of a supplementary security model that has previously been used during large public events. If successful, the service could be extended through the summer and during major gatherings such as the Barcolana sailing regatta and New Year’s celebrations.
The Trieste initiative is part of a broader regional security program funded through Friuli Venezia Giulia’s latest budget law. The region has allocated €6 million for 2026 and 2027, including €3 million this year alone. Of that amount, €1.5 million has been designated for Udine, €1 million for Trieste and €500,000 for Pordenone.
Local Confcommercio branches and business associations in the three cities will be eligible to apply for funding by presenting security projects by Oct. 31. Regional officials said the goal is to support safer public spaces for residents, visitors and businesses across Friuli Venezia Giulia’s largest urban centers.
