22.10.2026 11:10
After protests in Italy turned into violent incidents and approximately 200 police officers were injured, the Meloni government took strict measures. The new regulation envisages up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 euros for those who participate in violent acts, while families may also be held responsible for damage caused by children. Meloni announced that about half of the 330 people linked to the incidents were of foreign origin, and that the youngest suspect was 11 years old.
Protests in Italy over the cost of living and education conditions turned into violent incidents in several cities, especially Milan, over the weekend.
During the demonstrations, groups covering their faces clashed with police, many store windows were broken, businesses were looted, and public property was damaged.
According to statements by Italian authorities, approximately 200 security personnel were injured in the incidents. Following what happened, the Meloni government took new measures to ensure public order.
UP TO 5 YEARS IN PRISON, 20 THOUSAND EURO FINE
With the regulation adopted by the Italian Council of Ministers, participating in violent acts during demonstrations was defined as a separate crime.
Accordingly, people who endanger public safety by using objects such as stones, sticks, or fireworks within a group of at least 5 people may face up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to 20 thousand euros. Penalties may be aggravated if protesters conceal their faces or if people are injured in the incidents.
FAMILIES WILL PAY FOR DAMAGE CAUSED BY CHILDREN
One of the most striking articles of the new regulation concerned material damage caused by minors.
The government decided that families would also be held responsible for the financial losses caused by children involved in looting and property damage incidents.
Thus, in the event that businesses are destroyed or public property is damaged, children's parents may be approached to cover the damage.
HALF OF 330 PEOPLE ARE OF FOREIGN ORIGIN
Prime Minister Meloni announced that after the protests, 330 people were detained or identified.
According to information provided by Meloni, approximately half of these people were of foreign origin. It was stated that the group in question includes both those born outside Italy and those born in the country as children of foreign families.
Meloni stated that it was concerning that there were many children among those involved in the incidents.
YOUNGEST SUSPECT IS ONLY 11 YEARS OLD
It was announced that the youngest person identified during the protests was 11 years old.
Meloni, noting that it is worrying for children of such a young age to be associated with violent incidents, said that more comprehensive measures are needed to prevent young people from turning to violence.
Under the new regulation, it was decided to expand judicial measures for children in the 14-17 age group.
500 SOLDIERS ARE BEING SENT TO MILAN
The government approved the assignment of 500 additional soldiers to ensure security in Milan.
It is planned that the soldiers will serve in the city until the end of the year, protect critical points, and support security forces.
However, it was reported that the proposal envisaging giving soldiers direct police powers was removed from the regulation after President Sergio Mattarella's objection.
MELONI: DESTROYING AND LOOTING IS NOT REVOLUTIONARY
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, while announcing the new security measures, reacted strongly to the violent incidents during the protests.
Meloni stated that looting and destruction are incompatible with the right to protest and said, "There is nothing revolutionary about destroying and looting. Destruction and theft are not protest; they are crimes."
The Italian Prime Minister emphasized that those involved in violent incidents will face legal consequences.
SECURITY ALERT AHEAD OF NEW PROTESTS
New calls for demonstrations after the weekend's incidents in Italy put security forces into action again.
Ahead of protests planned in Milan, Rome, and other cities on October 24, authorities increased security measures.
As the new regulation adopted by the Meloni government enters into force, parliament must enact the decree into law within 60 days.