Italy Bans Burqa, Niqab in Schools - Giorgia Meloni

Italy’s government has approved a decree banning the wearing of burqas and niqabs in schools. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the measure was aimed at addressing security and integration concerns. The decree also introduces a 30% cap in certain classes on students who are not Italian citizens and have insufficient Italian-language or prior schooling backgrounds.

The measures also include additional support for learning Italian. Families of students facing serious integration difficulties may be required to attend free Italian-language courses, with fines of up to 1,000 euros for failure to comply. Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara said language skills are important for students’ academic progress and integration.