Italy's Meloni Plans School Ban on Burqa, Niqab, Limits on Foreign Students

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced plans on September 20 to introduce measures banning the wearing of burqas and niqabs in schools.

The proposals also include limiting the number of foreign students in classrooms. Meloni made the announcement at an event organized by the youth wing of her Brothers of Italy party in Rome. She stated, "For us, anyone who comes to Italy and wants to build their future here must learn our language, understand our culture, and respect our rules."

The proposed ban would cover the burqa, a full-body garment that covers the face, and the niqab, a face veil that leaves only the eyes visible. Meloni made no mention of the hijab in her remarks. The measures would also require Italian-language lessons for parents of foreign students facing serious difficulties integrating into the school system.

Meloni did not specify what the maximum number of foreign students per class would be. Students who are not Italian citizens account for 11.6% of those enrolled in Italian schools, according to Fondazione ISMU. The government’s cabinet must approve the measures before they head to parliament within 60 days for a final vote. Italy is among the European countries most exposed to migrant arrivals due to its central Mediterranean location.

While no law in Italy expressly bans burqas in schools or public places, a 1975 law prohibits the use of helmets or garments that make identification difficult without a justified reason. In 2008, Italy's highest administrative court clarified that full-face veils may be worn for religious or cultural reasons if the face is revealed when identity verification is required.