Italy's New Security Decree Targets Protest Violence and Minors

Italy's Council of Ministers approved a new security decree introducing measures against violence at public demonstrations, including a new crime with penalties up to 12 years in prison and extended preventive detention in crowded places. The decree creates the offense of "organized violence at public gatherings," punishable by 2-5 years in prison and fines up to €20,000, with increased penalties for masked offenders or damage to infrastructure. Minors aged 14 and older will be presumed criminally responsible, and parents face fines of €500-1,000 for their children's violent acts. The measures also include a ban on gatherings for minors, expanded official prosecution for injuries to police, and deployment of 500 additional military personnel to Milan until December 31 at a cost of €4.7 million.