The State Police (Polizia di Stato) is one of the four national police forces in Italy, operating under a civilian structure and reporting to the Ministry of the Interior. Its primary mission is to ensure public safety, safeguard public order, prevent and combat crime, and provide assistance in emergency situations. The State Police was officially established by Law No. 121 of April 1, 1981, which reformed the Italian public security system. This law modernized the force, introducing a democratic and civilian structure by demilitarizing the organization and promoting closer integration with civil society. The State Police operates throughout the national territory through Police Headquarters (Questure), Public Security Commissariats, and various specialized units. It also participates in international operations in cooperation with Europol, Interpol, and other European and global agencies. The core values of the State Police include legality, proximity to citizens, respect for human rights, and transparency. Its official motto is “Sub lege libertas”, meaning “Under the law, freedom”, reflecting the principle that law is the guarantor of liberty and democracy.
