A new criminal offence targeting violence at demonstrations, tougher measures for minors and an extra 500 troops deployed in Milan. These are the main points of the security decree approved by the Council of Ministers following the weekend’s looting and clashes.
The measure, made up of eight articles, introduces the offence of “organised violence at public demonstrations.” Anyone who uses sticks or clubs, or throws objects endangering others during protests, faces two to five years in prison and a fine of up to €20,000.
Penalties increase for those acting with their faces covered or who damage infrastructure and public services. Organising or promoting groups intended to carry out violence — including through digital tools — carries a sentence of four to twelve years in prison.
The decree also broadens the use of preventive detention, extending it to conduct that disturbs public safety in crowded places. The measure may also apply to minors aged 16 and over. The decree further extends delayed in-flagrante arrest for cases involving property damage.
On the issue of minors, the decree introduces a presumption of capacity to understand and act for anyone over 14, without making criminal liability dependent on an assessment carried out at the time of the offence.
Parents of minors who commit acts of violence during demonstrations will face fines of between €500 and €1,000, which can be doubled in cases of repeat offences. Police chiefs (questori) will also be able to ban minors from gathering under certain conditions, in order to counter intimidating group behaviour.
Another change concerns assaults on law enforcement: prosecution will now proceed automatically even for minor or very minor injuries inflicted on judicial police officers or public security personnel while on duty.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defended the crackdown and called for a firm response to the destruction, while distinguishing between those who commit violence and peaceful protesters. On the matter of compensation, she said: “And if the person who breaks things is a minor, their parents will pay.”
Within the governing coalition, however, differences remain over how to interpret the clashes. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has pointed to the notion of “hybrid warfare,” while Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has dismissed the idea of any orchestrated plan behind the unrest. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has called for further investigation into whether the groups involved were organised.
In Milan, the reinforcement of 500 troops will remain in place until 31 December, at an estimated cost of €4.7 million. A request to grant the soldiers deployed under the “Strade Sicure” (Safe Streets) operation judicial police powers was not approved.
