Legal/policy framework for the functioning and development of youth organizations

Art. 18 of the Constitution establishes that ‘citizens may form associations freely and without authorization for any ends that are not forbidden by criminal law’.

Legislative Decree 117/2017 regulates Third-sector entities, including ‘volunteer organizations, social promotion associations, philanthropic entities, social enterprises (including social cooperatives), associative networks, mutual aid societies, associations (whether recognized or unrecognized), foundations, and other private entities—excluding corporations—established for the pursuit, on a non-profit basis, of civic, solidarity, and socially useful objectives’. However, there is no specific mention of youth organizations.

Public financial support

Through the National Fund for Youth Policies, established with Decree-Law 223/2006 as converted by Law 248/2006,  the Department for Youth Policies and the Universal Civic Service finances also activities conducted by youth organizations. About half of these funds are managed at central level, and the remaining at regional and local level. Public authorities at central and local level launch calls for projects in order to assign the funds. (Cf. 1.7)

Initiatives to increase the diversity of participants

At present, there are no large-scale initiatives aiming to increase the diversity of young people participating in youth organizations.