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LA PREFETTURA DI PROSSIMITA': Closing the gap between the Prefecture and locali citizens
PREFETTURA-UFFICIO TERRITORIALE DEL GOVERNO DI LECCE

A. Problem Analysis

 1. What was the problem before the implementation of the initiative?
In 2011, the situation of the province of Lecce appeared extremely complex because of the dynamics of the national and local economies, which were undergoing a severe recession resulting in the closure / crisis of numerous production companies in the manufacturing sector and other key sectors, which had ensured a consistent employment. Therefore this phase was characterized by a widespread lack of confidence in the ability of the institutions and the national government to find solutions to the local discomfort, as well as the associated risks for the maintenance of order and public safety. At the same time a print campaign of exploitation and enslavement of non-EU immigrants employed in agriculture also involved the province of Lecce because of the presence of a number of workers employed in seasonal agricultural work in the of the town of Nardo, in the period from June to September. Finally, the particular vulnerability of local governments with respect to the mafia’s attempts to penetrate the economy and particularly public procurement, due to the availability of significant liquidity and the companies under mafia control, as well as attempts to influence sectors of the legal economy which until then had not been involved in criminal interests ( field of amateur football associations). It was therefore necessary to identify an overall strategic approach to be used on a number of fronts with the objectives of: 1. Opening up and strengthening the dialogue with social partners, the trade unions and the employers, local institutions and institutions offering credit, as well as bringing local issues to the attention of government bodies at a national level to ensure the necessary support to territory. 2. Boosting and accelerating processes of comparison between public and private sectors for the implementation of major infrastructure projects for the revival of the construction industry and the potential recovery of employment levels. 3. Strengthening the dynamics of the construction of a national identity by means of an increased knowledge of the celebrations of historical and national values and events that have characterized the history of the country. 4. Raising the attention on organized crime not only through the traditional model of contrast of criminal acts, but also by building opportunities and highlighting honest businesses and strengthening the system of " integrated security " based on the collaboration of the national police force, the local Police force , as well as businesses and society as a whole.

B. Strategic Approach

 2. What was the solution?
In this context, the Prefect Dr. Giuliana Perrotta, appointed by the Council of Ministers of the Prefecture of the province of Lecce in August 2011, has promoted a comprehensive and articulate approach, characterized by the involvement of all public and private actors across the territory, which were able to work together on major issues and deal with the emergencies. At the same time she strengthened the processes of relaying institutional information and communication to citizens by engaging in an "open" transparent approach to the needs of the district, in order to inform the public about the initiatives being put in place, thus giving added value to the role of the Prefecture as the representative of the Government in the county, both as the guarantor of social cohesion and national identity, and as head of public order and safety. This strategy was substantiated by 1. The coordination of the Permanent Provincial Conference and of the many meetings dealing with employment, with the aim of identifying and developing synergies between business and the world of work , the banking sector and local institutions and authorities. It is opportune to cite the Conference on Credit of 27 February 2012, the numerous meetings with companies in the manufacturing sector, with the company OMFESA, with those working with the treatment of solid urban waste, with associations of agricultural entrepreneurs, with managers of national and provincial road systems and construction companies. 2. The organization of events / celebrations to coincide with important civil, historical and cultural national anniversaries, in order to enhance feelings of social belonging, shared values and to strengthen national identity. These activities involved the veterans' associations which institutionally preserve and disseminate the history of the country, academic institutions, universities and schools , in this way addressing all citizens and especially young people, also by means of less common forms of language and communication (artistic, poetic, web). 3. Creating a multimedia link between institutions which was able to include the contributions of the various institutions involved and enhance the training /information given by the Prefecture, thus reaching a large audience of citizens, interested institutions and students. 4. The preparation and signing of legal agreements and Memorandums of Understanding aimed at strengthening and expanding preventive action against mafia infiltration, crimes in agriculture and the agri-food sector and robberies in postal offices.
 3. How did the initiative solve the problem and improve people’s lives?
The innovativeness of the approach lies in the Prefecture’s use of all the available tools of communication, enabling collaboration between the relevant institutions and exemplary local businesses. There has also been a book published " A year’s work by the Prefecture of Lecce , August 2011 - August 2012 " , the organization of conferences such as " The prevention of mafia infiltration in the economy - the protocols of legality, an opportunity for contracting authorities and businesses" October 9th, 2012, and the Conference" The 2011 census and other statistical information to support the strategies of local government , December 14th 2012" the creation and use of a multimedia platform designed to contain and spread information on events organized by the Prefecture , the creative contributions made by students from educational institutions in the province and research carried out by academic institutions. This comprehensive approach has made the area an "active part" in triggering processes of change and participation in activities that reinforce the culture of legality and social cohesion.

C. Execution and Implementation

 4. In which ways is the initiative creative and innovative?
The action plan which was developed on different themes, made use of the involvement of institutions, production companies and society, and also the instruments of institutional communication at the different stages of the plan’s progression, helping to strengthen the role of the prefectural institutions in the territory . In particular, the main activities focused on 1. The economic and employment field : Conference on Credit (27th February 2012) , Meeting on work (16th November 2012) , Meetings for social mediation for employment disputes (September 3rd 2012; June 28th 2012, April 10th 2013; July 23th 2013; September 2013 , October 22nd 2013; January 10th 2013). Meeting for the discussion of environmental issues and cycles of waste management (18th and 26th January 2012; March 26th 2012; August 13th 2012; May 10th 2013) , meetings concerning the implementation of major infrastructure such as the Regional 8 and Maglie- Otranto road (June 26th 2012; December 6th 2012; 3rd and 6th August 2012; 11th October 2012; November 12th, 2012 ). 2. Social cohesion and inclusion : May 30th 2012; June 18th 2012; May 22nd 2013; July 15th 2013 , Meetings on seasonal work of legal immigrants employed in agriculture; 28th May 2012, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Salento, Lecce for the activation of training opportunities and internships at the Prefecture; February 20th, 2013 Signing of the agreement with the Local Education Authority for the activation of civic education and information points for foreigners in various parts of the province; June 29th, 2012 , signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Salento for the activation offices of civic education and information points for foreigners in various parts of the province; February 16th 2012 , January 15th 2013 , June 18th 2013 ," COM.IN.ROM increase the skills of the operators on the ROM phenomenon" : Permanent committee with relevant agencies and sector III for the social inclusion of Rom minorities. Preventing and combating criminal behavior to protect public safety and law enforcement: April 12th 2012, Signing of Memorandum of provincial law relating to contracts with Confindustria and ANCE; June 29th 2012 , Signing on Memorandum of Understanding on the seasonal harvesting of fruit and vegetables, with relevant associations and institutions; August 1st 2012 signing of the Memorandum of Understanding of legality with the Italian Railway Network and Confindustria; August 9th 2012 Signing of Protocol "Network for the legality in public procurement" for the prevention of mafia infiltration in the economy; May 7th 2013 Signing of Memorandum of Understanding for the prevention of crimes in the banking sector; October 19th 2013 Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Prefecture and the Town Council of Gallipoli "Administrative Authorization and licenses: the new frontiers of mafia interests and preventative action ."
 5. Who implemented the initiative and what is the size of the population affected by this initiative?
Economic and employment fields: Confcommercio, Confindustria and other associations of employers, trade unions, Salento parliamentary deputations, regional and provincial institutions, entities managing the road network (ANAS and Province), other General Contractors and companies involved. Social cohesion and inclusion: Associations of agricultural entrepreneurs, trade unions, universities, the Local Education Authority of the Ministry of Education, relevant institutions, municipalities and local social associations . Preventing and combating criminal behavior to enforce the law and public safety: The national Police force, local Police and Provincial Police, Confcommercio, Confindustria and other associations, the Italian Railway Network, banking institutions, all the 97municipalities of the province and other public contractors.
 6. How was the strategy implemented and what resources were mobilized?
All the initiatives and activities undertaken by the Prefecture of Lecce did not result in additional costs other than those related to the ordinary use of technical resources and personnel of the offices during normal working hours. The contributions of external collaboration were done so on a voluntary basis. Participation in such initiatives gave them a return in terms of strengthening the institutional role and, in some cases, sponsorship.
 7. Who were the stakeholders involved in the design of the initiative and in its implementation?
Among the most important results it is necessary to distinguish between the effects in both the short and long term. Among the first we note the extensive participation of all institutions invited to the numerous initiatives / agreements entered into and the strengthening of dialogue between the institutions and social partners, who continue to consider the Prefecture the privileged place for the settlement of conflicts and the solution of problems. In the months following the involvement and consultation, participation and membership of those involved has not diminished, both at the time of renewing previously signed protocols, and in terms of achievements related to the commitment to strengthen the safety and legality of the territory
 8. What were the most successful outputs and why was the initiative effective?
For example, with regard to the protocol with the banking institutions, there has been a decline in bank robberies following the implementation of the passive safety systems with which the banks are equipped thanks to the agreements signed with the Prefecture. In relation to the Protocol on the prevention of mafia infiltration into public procurement, companies not previously affected by antimafia norms (D. LGS. 159/2011) regarding the assigning of contracts for public works, have now been reached.
 9. What were the main obstacles encountered and how were they overcome?
The major difficulties are due to the complexity of the problems that have ranged from economic and employment issues, issues of public safety and order, the protection of civil rights and social cohesion.

D. Impact and Sustainability

 10. What were the key benefits resulting from this initiative?
This global strategic approach has created a link between institutions and civil society, strengthening the processes of affirmation of legality, keeping public order and peaceful coexistence. In particular, it has boosted the demand for security and strengthened the awareness that this objective must be all inclusive not only institutional.
 11. Did the initiative improve integrity and/or accountability in public service? (If applicable)
The initiative is sustainable and can be replicated by prefectures around the country in their areas of competence. In addition, the use of planning, consultation, coordination and the transparent global approach that uses the most varied forms of communication and information (including the Web), the involvement of civil society organizations and academic and educational institutions, can be replicated in various institutional contexts within their specific frameworks.
 12. Were special measures put in place to ensure that the initiative benefits women and girls and improves the situation of the poorest and most vulnerable? (If applicable)
The work put in by the Prefecture of Lecce maximized synergies between institutions, associations and civil society, and therefore also Rotary Lecce, on various issues, and in keeping with the commitment of all parties concerned, the objectives of strengthening social cohesion, a stimulus for growth of the area and the consolidation of shared security. It was also able to reach out to, with targeted interventions, vulnerable groups such as non-EU immigrants, people who have been made redundant, as well as, students and the third sector, involving them actively in the process of affirmation of the values of legality and national identity. In fact, the Rotary, which brings together all the professions, companies and craftspeople, by working with the powers that be, public institutions and discussing the common good, actively contributes to the growth of the area and fits harmoniously in with the strategic and innovative approach put in place by the Prefecture of Lecce.

Contact Information

Institution Name:   PREFETTURA-UFFICIO TERRITORIALE DEL GOVERNO DI LECCE
Institution Type:   Government Department  
Contact Person:   GIULIANA PERROTTA
Title:   PREFETTO  
Telephone/ Fax:   0832.6931
Institution's / Project's Website:  
E-mail:   prefettura.lecce@interno.it  
Address:   PRESSO PREFETTURA VIA XXV LUGLIO
Postal Code:   73100
City:   LECCE
State/Province:   LECCE
Country:  

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