Italy’s New Security Law Targets Rioters, Minors And Parents After Milan Violence

Italy has approved a new security decree introducing prison terms of up to five years for violent protesters, fines of up to $22,500 and financial liability for parents whose children damage property. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government also plans to deploy 500 additional soldiers in Milan after weekend riots injured more than 100 police officers, as unrest over living costs spreads across Europe.

Approved on Tuesday, October 20, the security decree creates an offence of violent participation in demonstrations. Those joining groups of five or more people and endangering public safety face up to five years in prison and fines of €20,000 ($22,500). Penalties increase when offenders conceal their faces or injure people.

“Demonstrating is a right, devastating our cities is not,” Meloni said, insisting that vandalism and theft cannot be justified as political protest. The decree takes immediate effect but requires parliamentary approval within 60 days.

Parents will be financially liable for damage caused by their underage children. Authorities can seek compensation for damage to public property, including traffic lights, bus shelters and police vehicles, while private owners can pursue claims through courts.

The measures also expand preventive detention powers to minors aged 14 to 17 when they are considered a threat to public order. People aged 14 and above will be presumed capable of understanding their actions unless proven otherwise. The government plans to expand juvenile detention facilities and appoint additional judges.

Milan’s weekend violence involved young people looting shops, smashing windows and setting fires around the cathedral and luxury shopping district. Police used tear gas and water cannons. Reports said 271 young people were detained, while police figures cited on Monday recorded 32 arrests, including 23 minors, and 28 people reported to judicial authorities. Luxury brands including Chanel, Tiffany and Dior removed merchandise or closed stores amid fears of further violence.

The government will deploy 500 soldiers until the end of 2026 to reinforce security and monitor sensitive locations. However, soldiers will not receive the expanded policing powers reportedly considered during discussions. Italy is also weighing tougher penalties for road blockades after truckers protested soaring diesel prices in the south, disrupting supply chains.