Italy’s right-wing government, led by Giorgia Meloni, approved a new security decree on Friday aimed at boosting police protections. There were demonstrations in Rome against the bill which many see as overly punitive.
Prime Minister Meloni announced the decree on X, saying, “We promised a safer Italy and we are keeping that promise.”
The decree increases penalties for attacking law enforcement officers and introduces harsher punishment for crimes like pickpocketing and fraud. The bill also includes tougher action against squatters and lifelong bans from public services for violent offenders in key sectors.
Offenders who assault rail and metro workers could now be banned from public services for life under the proposed law. It also punishes activists who block roads with up to two years in prison, targeting protest tactics used by climate groups. Also, the decree introduces mandatory body cameras for police and aims to stop pregnancy being used to avoid prison time.
Meloni chaired the cabinet meeting that approved the measures, which amend a bill debated in parliament for 18 months. To become law, the decree must now pass votes in both chambers of the Italian parliament.
Opposition lawmakers strongly criticised the measures. Francesco Boccia of the Democratic Party called it “punitive populism.”
Protests in Rome as Cabinet approves Bill
While the cabinet was in session, protesters gathered near the Pantheon to oppose the new security decree. Demonstrators tried to march towards the prime minister’s office, but police blocked the route with barricades.
Tensions rose as protesters attempted to break through. Police responded with batons to disperse the crowd. Two police officers were reportedly injured after bottles were thrown during the clashes. The protest was organised by the National Network No Ddl Sicurezza, a coalition of civil groups, unions and political parties.
Demonstrations continued at several locations across central Rome, with student groups taking a prominent role.
Chants of “Fight to the bitter end against bill 1660” and “Assassins” echoed through Via di Santa Chiara.
Police blocked access to Largo Chigi and Piazza della Minerva to contain the protest route. Officers managed to hold the line using shields after around 15 minutes of heightened tension.
Politicians from the Democratic Party, Five Star Movement, and other opposition groups attended the protest.
The bill has sparked fierce debate between those demanding public order and those defending civil liberties, with general strikes against its implementation.
