Giorgia Meloni’s Tough New Laws: 5-Year Jail Term For Violent Protesters, Parents Liable For Minors’ Crimes

Rome: Prime Minister Georgia Meloni's government has taken strict steps to curb incidents of violent demonstrations, vandalism and looting in Italy. The government on Tuesday approved several new provisions related to security. These include provisions like strict punishment for those involved in violent activities, fines for those who damage public property and holding parents of minors financially responsible. The government says these measures are aimed at maintaining public safety and curbing violent activities.

What new rules has the Italian government made against the protesters?

The Italian government has paved the way for strict legal action against those who indulge in violence, vandalism and looting during the protests. Under the new provisions, individuals who pose a threat to public safety during a demonstration in a group of at least five people can be jailed for up to five years. Apart from this, there is also a provision to impose a maximum fine of 20 thousand euros.

If during a demonstration a person engages in violent activities by covering their face or causes injury to another person, the punishment may be harsher. The government has also given the authorities the power to order compensation for the loss.

Why did the Maloney government feel the need for a new law?

According to the report, the government took this decision after violent incidents in many cities of Northern Italy. Even in the financial capital Milan, incidents of breaking shop windows, looting and attacks on police were reported during the protests.

Giving information about the new law on social media, Prime Minister Georgia Meloni said that vandalism and theft cannot be called revolutionary activities in any way. According to him, such incidents are crimes and it is necessary to deal with them strictly.

The government believes that the new rules will curb those who commit violence in the name of protest. However, critics argue that before implementing strict laws, the social and economic reasons behind violence and crime should also be taken into account.

What action will be taken against parents?

In the new provisions, the responsibility of the parents of minors for their violent activities has also been fixed. If minors are found to be involved in vandalism or looting, their parents may be held responsible to compensate for the damage caused.

In addition, police will also be allowed to detain youth aged 14 to 17 who have not committed any crime themselves but who there is evidence of being dangerous. Earlier such rights were applicable only in cases of adults.

Regarding these provisions, there can also be a discussion on maintaining a balance between the rights of children and the powers of the police. In the implementation of the law, it will be important that action against a minor is taken only on the basis of sufficient evidence.

What arrangements will be made in Milan to stop violent demonstrations?

The government fears violence may erupt again during Saturday's protests. In view of this, preparations have been made to strengthen the security arrangements in Milan.

According to the report, 500 soldiers will be deployed along with the police by the end of 2026. According to the Defense Ministry, the Army will help the police in securing important places, monitoring sensitive areas and strengthening security arrangements.

The government is trying to prevent incidents of damage to public property and endangering the safety of common people during large demonstrations.

What challenges remain despite Italy's strict security policies?

Georgia Meloni's government has taken many tough steps on security issues since coming to power in the year 2022. However, critics say that merely making stricter laws cannot address the root causes of crime and violence.

The number of prisoners in Italy's prisons has increased by more than 17 percent in the past four years, according to government data. On the other hand, in southern Italy, truck drivers continue to protest against inflation and rising diesel prices.

The supply system has also been affected due to protests on the streets. Some pasta companies have had to halt production, while agricultural organisations have raised concerns about spoilage of fruits and vegetables. The government has also assured providing new assistance to transport companies.

In such a situation, the Meloni government faces a double challenge. On one hand it has to ensure public safety, while on the other hand it has to find solutions to the problems related to inflation, transport crisis and protests.