Its official operation begins today, Monday, November 11 «Safe Youth», of a new one “panic button” aimed at young people
The Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis had characterized it as a multi-faceted and promising tool which, in combination with the 10201 service, offers young people and adults the possibility to immediately report incidents that require police intervention.
Referring to the increased incidents of minors that concern the authorities, he noted that this year, up to October, there have been 12,000 arrests of minors, compared to 8,600 the previous year, mainly between the ages of 13 and 17. Mr. Chrysochoidis emphasized the importance of parental supervision and the responsibility of parents in this matter.
In addition, he addressed the issue of underage drinking in bars and clubs. Despite the fact that the police, under the current legal framework, do not have the possibility to carry out alcohol checks in such places, relevant legislation is being promoted that will allow this in the future. Mr. Chrysochoidis added that they also aim to tackle private parties organized in clubs and bars, with the aim of strengthening the legislative framework around the consumption of alcohol by minors.
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**Interview with Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis on the Launch of ”Safe Youth” Panic Button**
**Editor:** Minister Chrysochoidis, today marks the official launch of the “Safe Youth” panic button. What motivated the government to introduce this technology specifically for young people?
**Minister Chrysochoidis:** The primary motivation is the safety of our youth. We’ve seen a troubling increase in incidents involving minors, and this tool offers them a direct line to police intervention when they feel threatened or in danger. It is a proactive measure to empower them during critical moments.
**Editor:** You mentioned 12,000 arrests of minors this year, a significant jump from last year. What do you attribute this increase to, and how do you believe “Safe Youth” can help mitigate these incidents?
**Minister Chrysochoidis:** The rise can be attributed to a variety of social factors, including peer pressure and substance use. The ”Safe Youth” initiative, combined with the 10201 service, facilitates immediate reporting of situations that could escalate. It provides young people a sense of security, knowing they have a way to seek help swiftly.
**Editor:** In your remarks, you touched on the issue of underage drinking and the proposed legislation to empower police with alcohol checks in bars and clubs. How do you see this enforcement impacting young people’s behavior?
**Minister Chrysochoidis:** Strengthening the legal framework around underage drinking is crucial. With more enforcement capabilities, we believe it will deter establishments from serving alcohol to minors. This goes hand in hand with what we’re trying to achieve with “Safe Youth”—an environment that prioritizes the safety and well-being of our youth.
**Editor:** As we discuss these protective measures, it’s essential to consider public opinion: Do you believe that parents should be held more accountable for their children’s actions when it comes to drinking and general behavior? Should there be a dialogue around parental responsibility versus youth autonomy?
**Minister Chrysochoidis:** That is indeed a critical question. Parental supervision plays a vital role in shaping responsible behaviors. However, it’s important to strike a balance. While we encourage parents to take responsibility, we also need to empower young people to make sensible choices. Encouraging an open dialogue on this matter is fundamental for community health and youth well-being.
**Editor:** Thank you, Minister Chrysochoidis, for your insights. Readers, what are your thoughts on the introduction of the “Safe Youth” panic button? Do you think it addresses the root issues of youth safety, or should more focus be placed on parental responsibility and community involvement?
