Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has announced strict new measures against violent protesters, including prison terms of up to five years and fines of up to €20,000. The new rules also make parents financially responsible for damage caused by their minor children.
Tough Action Against Violent Protests
Meloni announced the measures on October 20 after violent riots in Milan and other Italian cities. The unrest reportedly involved clashes with police, looting and damage to shops and public property.
Under the new decree, people who join a group of five or more during a demonstration and throw stones, firecrackers or sticks while endangering public safety could face up to five years in prison and fines of up to €20,000.
Penalties may increase if protesters cover their faces or injure other people.
Parents Could Pay for Damage Caused by Minors
One of the key measures focuses on property damage caused by young offenders.
Meloni said parents could be held financially responsible for damage caused by their minor children. This could include damage to public property, such as traffic lights and bus shelters, as well as private property, including shops and cars.
The government says the measure follows the principle that anyone who causes damage must pay for it.
New Rules for Young Offenders
The decree also introduces changes to how young people suspected of criminal activity are treated. It extends certain preventive detention powers to minors and introduces stricter provisions concerning their criminal responsibility.
The government says these steps are intended to prevent violence and discourage young people from taking part in riots.
Milan Riots Prompt Government Response
The announcement follows unrest in Milan, where violent groups reportedly looted shops, damaged property and clashed with police during demonstrations. The government has also announced plans to deploy 500 additional soldiers in Milan to strengthen security.
Debate Over Public Safety and Protest Rights
Meloni has defended the measures as necessary to protect citizens and prevent violence. However, the stricter rules are also likely to raise questions about the balance between public safety and the right to peaceful protest.
The decree takes effect immediately, but it must be converted into law by the Italian Parliament within 60 days. The government says peaceful demonstrations remain a democratic right, but violence and vandalism will face tougher consequences.