Giorgia Meloni: "common-sense measures that do not divide but help foster genuine integration…"

Italy’s government has approved a decree capping at 30% the proportion of pupils per classroom who know little Italian and prohibiting face-concealing Islamic veils in schools. Premier Giorgia Meloni’s conservative administration says the language rule, determined by fluency rather than citizenship and covering EU students without Italian, is meant to improve integration. Teachers, unions and opposition parties warn it could push children into schools outside their local areas; critics say the government is making immigration a political matter. The decree is in force now, but lawmakers must ratify it within two months, and Meloni’s alliance controls parliament. Voting could occur next spring, and retired general Roberto Vannacci is challenging her from the right. Meloni defended the measures on social media. Analysts say the package helps her highlight conservative priorities, though its practical effect may be modest and enforcement remains uncertain.