What are Italy’s new measures against violent protests?

Italy's government will deploy 500 army troops to Milan following two days of protests marked by clashes with police, looting, and vandalism. The unrest, which began over poor public services and rising costs, led to luxury shops in the city's financial district closing early and boarding up windows. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini announced the troop deployment, which is part of a security package to be approved by the cabinet. Italian police detained 271 young people during the weekend's disturbances, with 32 arrests, including 23 minors. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence and is considering measures to curb violence by minors and youth gangs. Similar unrest has been reported in other northern Italian cities and echoes recent protests in France.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will convene an emergency security meeting following violent clashes that erupted during protests over the rising cost of living in Milan over the weekend. More than 5,000 people participated in the demonstrations, which saw masked protesters throw objects at police, leading to the deployment of tear gas and water cannons. Over 200 people were detained, with 80% being minors. Milan's mayor expressed concern that the violence, which included smashed shop windows and looted stores, reflects a "new phenomenon" influenced by international events. The prosecutor's office is seeking prison sentences for five adults arrested for looting, vandalism, and resisting arrest.

Italy's government has introduced new security measures to address recent chaotic youth-led protests, which involved vandalism and clashes with police. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence, stating it is criminality, not protest. The measures include deploying 500 troops to Milan until year-end to enhance security and surveillance. Legally, a new offense of "violent participation in public demonstrations" has been created, punishable by up to five years in prison and a significant fine for those using harmful objects in groups of more than five. Parents of minors can be held financially liable for damages caused by their children. Additionally, administrative detention powers are extended to 14-18 year olds deemed a danger, and organizing violent protests online can lead to up to 12 years in prison. These measures follow weekend unrest in Milan, Bologna, and Turin, protesting rising living costs and inspired by similar demonstrations in France and Spain.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned violent protests that occurred across Italy on Saturday, calling the perpetrators "gangs of thugs." The demonstrations, some organized by the CGIL labor union, turned violent in cities like Milan, Turin, and Bologna, resulting in property damage, looting, and injuries to police officers. In Milan, water cannons were used to disperse crowds, and demonstrators were detained. Meloni expressed solidarity with law enforcement and urged political opponents to unequivocally condemn the violence, distinguishing it from legitimate peaceful protest. While acknowledging the right to demonstrate, she stated that setting cities ablaze is unacceptable. Milan's mayor noted the protests' reasons were understandable but condemned the violence and damage.