Meloni promises to ban burqas, niqabs in Italy’s schools
News Source
•Sun, 20 Sep 2026 17:27:53 +0000
📰 What Happened
Italy plans to ban burqas and niqabs in schools, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Sunday. She said classes will also limit the number of foreign students.
Meloni spoke at a gathering of the youth wing of her Brothers of Italy party in Rome. She said parents of foreign students would have to take Italian lessons if their children struggle to fit in.
"Anyone who comes to Italy and wants to build their future here must learn our language," she told the crowd. They gave her a standing ovation.
🔍 The Backstory
Meloni leads Italy's longest-lasting government since World War Two. Her party faces a challenge in 2027 from National Future, which sits even further to the right.
Immigration is expected to be a central issue in next year's general election. Support for limits on Islamic dress has grown in parts of Europe.
Once the government approves the changes, parliament would have 60 days to pass them into law.
🎯 Why It Matters
The plan could change daily life for Muslim families and foreign students in Italy. It also shows how immigration is shaping politics across Europe.
Italy plans to ban burqas and niqabs in schools, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Sunday. She said classes will also limit the number of foreign students.
Meloni spoke at a gathering of the youth wing of her Brothers of Italy party in Rome. She said parents of foreign students would have to take Italian lessons if their children struggle to fit in.
"Anyone who comes to Italy and wants to build their future here must learn our language," she told the crowd. They gave her a standing ovation.
Meloni leads Italy's longest-lasting government since World War Two. Her party faces a challenge in 2027 from National Future, which sits even further to the right.
Immigration is expected to be a central issue in next year's general election. Support for limits on Islamic dress has grown in parts of Europe.
Once the government approves the changes, parliament would have 60 days to pass them into law.
The plan could change daily life for Muslim families and foreign students in Italy. It also shows how immigration is shaping politics across Europe.