Italy approves security decree criminalizing violent protest participation

Italy's Council of Ministers approved a new security decree creating the crime of violent participation in a protest, with penalties up to five years in prison and fines up to 20,000 euros. The decree also extends preventive detention to minors aged 14-18. Premier Giorgia Meloni stated the principle is "who breaks pays, and if a minor breaks, their parents pay." Justice Minister Carlo Nordio specified the new offense requires at least five people using dangerous objects or launching projectiles, with increased penalties for masked individuals. The decree also allows deferred arrest and reverses the burden of proof for minors' criminal capacity. The Quirinale raised one exception regarding military personnel's judicial police powers. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi confirmed preventive detention now applies to minors suspected of disturbing security in crowded places. A protest against violence is scheduled in Milan's Piazza della Scala on Wednesday.