Italy Set to Approve Tougher Security Measures After Violent Turin Protests
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The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, is preparing to introduce a new package of security measures following violent clashes during a protest in Turin last Saturday. The cabinet is expected to approve the measures at a meeting on Thursday, according to government sources.
The protest erupted in response to the closure of the anarchist and anticapitalist Askatasuna social centre. The demonstration quickly escalated into urban unrest, leaving around 100 law-enforcement officers injured. Among the wounded was a police officer who suffered broken bones after being attacked by a group of protesters, one of whom reportedly used a hammer.
In light of these events, the government is accelerating its work on the security package and is considering more radical measures. Proposals include the preventative detention of known troublemakers ahead of potentially volatile demonstrations, as well as a form of legal protection for police officers. This “criminal shield” would mean that officers involved in clashes or incidents resulting in injuries or fatalities while on duty would not automatically face investigation.
Opposition leader Elly Schlein of the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) said she had called Prime Minister Meloni to urge against using the Turin violence for political gain, emphasising the need for unity in supporting law enforcement. In response, Meloni’s office announced that the ruling coalition would propose a bilateral resolution on security to the opposition parties.
Both the PD and the 5-Star Movement (M5S) have stated they will review the contents of the proposed resolution before deciding whether to support it.
The government’s move comes amid heightened tensions and debate over how best to balance public order with civil liberties in Italy.
