Italy’s ruling Brothers of Italy (FdI) party — led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni — has introduced a new bill that could ban Islamic face coverings, including the burqa and niqab, in public spaces across the country.
The proposal has sparked a national debate over religious freedom, cultural identity, and women’s rights.
What the Bill Says
The bill aims to prohibit full-face coverings in public areas such as schools, offices, shops, and universities.
Anyone found violating the law could face a fine between €300 and €3,000.
It doesn’t stop there — the proposal also introduces stricter rules for religious organisations, especially those receiving foreign funding. Religious groups not officially recognised by the state may be required to disclose their donors and financial sources.
The bill even touches on sensitive topics like forced marriages and virginity testing, calling them “cultural crimes” that go against Italian values.
🗣️ Why the Government Supports It
Supporters of the move say it’s not about religion, but about security and integration.
FdI MP Andrea Delmastro explained:
“Religious freedom is sacred, but it must be exercised openly, in full respect of our constitution.”
Another MP, Galeazzo Bignami, described the bill as a safeguard against “all forms of extremism and parallel societies.”
In short, the government believes this law will help protect Italy’s cultural identity while promoting social cohesion.
⚠️ Why Critics Are Worried
Opponents argue that the proposed ban could unfairly target Muslim women and stigmatize Italy’s Muslim community, which numbers around 2–3 million people.
They warn that this may restrict personal and religious freedoms, and that it distracts from deeper issues like education, equality, and inclusion.
Human rights groups have also voiced concern that laws like these could fuel discrimination and Islamophobia in society.
Why It Matters Beyond Italy
This isn’t just an Italian debate — several European countries, including France, Belgium, and Denmark, already have restrictions on face coverings.
If Italy enforces this law, it could influence other EU nations to adopt similar rules.
The move also reflects a broader trend in Europe where governments are trying to balance national identity, religious freedom, and social integration.
The Bigger Picture
For Italy, this bill is as much about culture and control as it is about security and symbolism.
Whether it becomes law or not, it highlights how nations are redefining what “integration” means in a multicultural world.
