Civilian Participation in Public Safety: The Case of the Hungarian Civil Volunteer Guard

This paper investigated the motivations, activities, satisfaction levels, and organizational perceptions of members of the Hungarian Civil Volunteer Guard (Polgárőrség) based on a nationwide quantitative survey of 431 volunteers. Using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and hypothesis testing, the study identified key factors influencing member satisfaction and future commitment. Results showed that higher volunteering hours and frequent cooperation with the police were strongly associated with greater satisfaction and organizational loyalty, while demographic variables such as gender, age, and education exerted minimal influence. Open-ended responses further revealed pressing challenges related to recruitment, public recognition, resource distribution, and institutional collaboration. The results emphasize that the organization’s future sustainability depends primarily on active member engagement and improved public visibility. The findings signal the need to adapt policy toward a sustainable future for the Civil Guard underpinned by greater involvement, public recognition, and integration.