by Nastassja Martin
Interview: Diego Bernardis, a regional councilor from the center-right Fedriga President group
The regional council of Friuli Venezia Giulia has approved legislation introducing additional support for families pursuing national adoptions, with a particular focus on the waiting period after their initial assessment by social and health services.
The measure provides voluntary training and support programs through authorized adoption agencies participating in a regional agreement. Each eligible beneficiary will receive a contribution of €1,000, with €300,000 allocated for the three-year period from 2026 to 2028.
The legislation aims to address a gap in the adoption process, during which prospective parents can face lengthy periods of uncertainty without continuous guidance or assistance, according to Diego Bernardis, a regional councilor from the center-right Fedriga President group and the bill’s lead sponsor.
Bernardis said the initiative would draw on the expertise of professionals already involved in international adoptions, extending their support to families pursuing domestic adoption.
The measure does not alter the responsibilities of juvenile courts or public social services, but establishes an additional, voluntary support system for prospective adoptive parents.
The legislation was developed with input from regional officials and organizations working in the adoption sector, including I Fiori Semplici, an association based in Monfalcone that brought the issue to the attention of regional authorities.
The regional government said the initiative is intended to strengthen support for families while improving protections for children awaiting adoption.
