Italy Cracks Down on Violent Protests with New Security Measures and Troop Deployment

Following a weekend of chaotic youth-led protests in Milan, inspired by similar demonstrations in France and Spain, Italy's right-wing government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has enacted a series of stringent security measures. The decree aims to curb escalating unrest, which saw groups of young people looting shops and clashing with police.

Prime Minister Meloni denounced the actions, stating on social media, “There is nothing revolutionary about vandalising and stealing. Vandalism and theft are not protest, they are criminality.”

Key measures announced include the immediate deployment of 500 troops to Milan until the end of the year to bolster security at critical locations and enhance surveillance. However, the army's role remains limited, as the cabinet stopped short of granting soldiers additional policing powers, a move that faced opposition from President Sergio Mattarella. In Italy, the army's primary function is national defence, while police handle investigations and arrests.

The new legal framework introduces a new offense: “violent participation in public demonstrations.” This targets individuals involved in group gatherings of more than five people where potentially harmful objects like stones, sticks, and fireworks are used. This offense carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 euros ($22,440).

Furthermore, the decree invokes a “You break it, you buy it” principle, making parents of minors financially liable for damages caused by their children. The state can seek compensation from parents' assets or by withholding public subsidies.

Young people aged 14 to 18 will also face administrative detention, even without committing a crime, if evidence suggests they pose a danger. This extends powers previously applicable only to adults.

Additional measures include significantly longer prison sentences, up to 12 years, for those using social media or online platforms to organize violent public demonstrations.

Historian Gregorio Sorgona of the University of Palermo commented that the measures overlook the growing discontent among young people, fueled by economic precarity and the stark contrast between perceived wealth and their reality. He argued that addressing the root causes of social inequality is crucial before tackling the effects.

The weekend saw widespread protests across Europe, including Italy, against the rising cost of living. In Milan, riots resulted in looting and property damage, with masked individuals clashing with police who responded with water cannons and tear gas. At least two officers were injured, and approximately 50 demonstrators, many minors, were detained. Similar incidents occurred in Bologna and Turin.

Critics argue that the new measures fail to address the underlying issues of rising prices, unaffordability, and failing public services, which are contributing to youth disillusionment. Data indicates a significant increase in the cost of necessities while average wages have declined.

Genoa Mayor Silvia Salis acknowledged the need to listen to young people but condemned the violence, advocating for inclusion as a response. NGOs like Associazione Antigone warned that mass arrests could exacerbate existing prison overcrowding issues, noting a substantial increase in Italy's prison population.

Sorgona expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of these measures, citing historical precedents like the 2001 Genoa G8 protests, where similar tactics failed to prevent further unrest. He suggested that the decree might intensify protests and lead to numerous arrests based on vaguely defined legal grounds, particularly in a society marked by poverty and social segregation.