Italy's ruling Brothers of Italy party is advancing a legislative proposal aimed at banning the burqa and niqab in public spaces across the country. The initiative, described by party lawmakers as a measure against "Islamic separatism," targets garments that cover the face entirely. Proposed penalties for violations of this ban range from €300 to €3,000.
The legislation is part of a broader package addressing issues related to cultural integration and includes provisions for increasing penalties associated with forced marriages. It also mandates that religious groups not recognized by the state must disclose any foreign funding they receive. Lawmaker Andrea Delmastro emphasized the importance of exercising religious freedom in alignment with constitutional values, stating that such practices should be visible and transparent.
In drawing inspiration from France, which enacted a full burqa ban in 2011, Italy’s proposed legislation seeks to reinforce national sovereignty and cultural integrity. This follows a trend seen in several European nations, including Belgium, Denmark, and Switzerland, which have implemented similar restrictions on Islamic attire.
Italy already possesses a law from 1975 that prohibits complete face coverings, although it does not specifically address burqas. The Union of Islamic Communities of Italy, a prominent Islamic organization in the country, has not yet commented on the proposed bill.
The Brothers of Italy party, under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, promotes this initiative as part of its commitment to safeguarding Italian cultural values, marking a significant step in the ongoing debate surrounding religious expression and integration in Italy.