Opposition says government is leading Italy ‘back to the days of fascism’

Other criticized points include more severe sentences for riots in migrant prisons or reception centers, even though they involve passive resistance; and the compulsory arrest of pregnant women or mothers of young children guilty of crimes such as theft.

According to the leader of the Democratic Party (Center left), Elly Schlein, the right and the far right are leading Italy to the same scenario as a distant past: “This security decree brings us to the days of the Fascist Rocco Code, adopted in 1930. My compliments,” she said sarcastically.

On the other hand, vice-prime minister Matteo Salvini, supporter of the text, celebrates: “It is a beautiful day! Finally, the decree-law will be converted into law,” said the leader of the league (far right) and vice president of the board. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also celebrated adoption on social networks: “The government is taking a decisive step to increase the protection of citizens and men and women in uniform.”

“Attack on freedom to disagree”

The bill has been the subject of numerous protests in recent months. On Saturday (31), thousands of people gathered in Rome in a demonstration against the law, passing through emblematic places of the Italian capital and surrounded by a strong police presence. The acts were organized not only by opposition to the far right government, but also by unions and legal organizations.