OECD Reviews of Risk Management Policies: Italy 2010
Review of the Italian National Civil Protection System
This OECD review of risk management policies focuses on the Italian civil protection
system and its means to prepare for and react to earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, landslides
and even volcanoes. The Italian National Civil Protection Service can rapidly mobilise
operational resources for emergency management and recovery both at home, throughout
Europe and around the world. Its components constantly research known hazards to better
understand and model vulnerabilities, while technical experts co-operate in real time
to monitor events as they unfold and operate the early warning systems. These professionals
are supported by a highly organised and motivated volunteer service unseen elsewhere
in OECD countries. What makes these many parts of the civil protection system work
as one effective whole, however, is its governance structure under the direct authority
of the Italian Prime Minister.
Recent years have seen a steep increase in the frequency and economic impacts of disasters,
and Italy has been no exception. In addition to increased seasonal variance linked
to climate change, the devastating earthquakes around L’Aquilla in 2009 make Italy
a case study for policy-makers, emergency management practitioners, academics and
international organisations who are searching for solutions, notably in the areas
of disaster damage reduction policies. The Italian civil protection system offers
a rich source of best practices for their consideration. The National Department of
Civil Protection in particular, as the hub of the National Civil Protection Service,
provides a model of professionalism and leadership. The review report also identifies
many challenges facing the Italian civil protection system and areas where improvements
are still needed.
Published on April 14, 2010
In series:OECD Reviews of Risk Management Policiesview more titles