Italy's Cabinet Decree Caps Non-Italian Speakers, Bans Face Veils in Schools

Italy's government approved a decree on Thursday that caps the share of students with limited Italian proficiency in any single classroom and prohibits face-covering Islamic veils in schools, a package Premier Giorgia Meloni's conservative administration says is intended to strengthen integration through language learning.

The measure sets a ceiling of 30 percent of students lacking sufficient Italian in each class. Eligibility is to be determined by language ability rather than citizenship, and the threshold would also cover pupils from other European Union countries who do not speak Italian.

The decree takes effect immediately but must be endorsed by parliament within 60 days. Meloni's coalition holds a majority in both chambers.

Meloni described the package on social media as "common-sense measures that do not divide but help foster genuine integration," saying they would prevent "ghetto" classrooms and give all students equal opportunities. The plan has drawn support from the government's right-wing allies.

Opponents, including some educators, trade unions and opposition parties, contend the rules could compel students to enroll in schools far from their own neighborhoods. Critics also accuse the government of treating immigration as a political issue.

Analysts note that elections are possible as early as next spring, and that the measures allow the premier to reaffirm her standing on issues central to her conservative base, even though their practical effect is likely to be limited and significant questions remain about enforcement.

The decree arrives as Meloni faces pressure on her right flank from a new hard-line challenger, retired army Gen. Roberto Vannacci, who has sought to capitalize on voter concerns over immigration and national identity.