The official launch of “Safe Youth,” a panic button designed for young people, begins today, Monday 11 November, as announced by the Greek Minister for Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis.
“‘Safe Youth’ is a complex tool with many uses, and I hope it proves to be very useful,” Mr. Chrysochoidis said in an interview on 7 November.
He continued, emphasising that “alongside 10201, it is a tool provided to young people and adults to report an incident immediately and have the police respond promptly to address it.”
He noted, as an example, that “this year, in the first 10 months of 2024, we have made 12,000 arrests of minors. Last year, we had 8,600. The age range is primarily between 13 and 17. This also concerns parents, who have significant responsibilities, particularly regarding supervision of their children.”
Regarding checks in bars for underage alcohol consumption, he clarified that, under current legislation, the police do not have the authority to conduct alcohol checks. However, a new provision is being prepared to enable police intervention. “On the other hand, I believe we should focus on private events, parties at clubs and bars where funds are being raised, which eventually leads to drinking. This needs to be known to the police, and the government is now promoting a series of legislative changes to significantly improve the legal framework,” he concluded.
Source: AMNA
