by InTrieste
In response to growing concerns over crime in the city center, regional and local authorities in Trieste are launching a €2 million initiative to enhance security measures across businesses and public establishments. The program, funded by the Friuli Venezia Giulia regional government and managed by the Chamber of Commerce of Venezia Giulia, will support the installation of surveillance cameras and the hiring of private security personnel.
The initiative was presented on Thursday by Antonio Paoletti, president of the Chamber of Commerce, alongside regional and law enforcement officials. According to the plan, €640,000 will be allocated for the installation of cameras and alarm systems in Trieste-based businesses, with an additional €360,000 designated for similar measures in Gorizia. A separate €1 million fund will provide financial support for security personnel in hotels, student residences, bars, restaurants, lottery halls, and beach establishments.
The effort follows a series of incidents that have raised concerns among business owners and residents. In recent remarks, Mr. Paoletti pointed to rising unease in certain areas of the city, drawing comparisons to a recent violent incident in Villach, Austria. “What happened in Villach could happen in Trieste at any time,” he said, emphasizing what he described as a “profound change” in the city’s security landscape.
While the new funding aims to deter crime, officials acknowledge that surveillance systems alone will not fully address violent incidents. “Law enforcement is under constant pressure,” Mr. Paoletti said, noting that authorities face challenges in maintaining security given the number of people in the region.
Interviews: regional councilor for security, Pierpaolo Roberti; Questor Pietro Ostuni; Antonio Paoletti, president of Confcommercio
