Meloni plans burqa, niqab ban in Italian schools; proposes cap on foreign students and Italian lessons for parents

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Sunday that her government will soon introduce measures to limit the number of foreign students in classrooms and prohibit the wearing of burqas and niqabs in schools.

Addressing the youth wing of her nationalist-conservative Brothers of Italy party, Meloni said the proposed measures would also make Italian-language classes mandatory for parents of foreign students facing “serious difficulties integrating into the school system.”

Italian lessons proposed for parents

The proposed measure would also make Italian-language classes compulsory for parents of foreign students facing what Meloni described as “serious difficulties integrating into the school system.”

Meloni stresses language, culture and rules

Speaking at the Gioventu Nazionale national festival in Rome, Meloni said, "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," adding, "It is the only serious way to welcome them."

Burqa and niqab specifically mentioned

Meloni referred specifically to the burqa, an all-covering garment worn by some Muslim women, and the niqab, which covers the face except for the eyes. She did not mention the hijab, a headscarf worn by some Muslim women.

Government measure needs Parliament’s approval

If approved by the government, the measure would need to receive parliamentary approval within 60 days to become law.

Meloni maintains tough migration stance

Meloni, who has political roots in the far-right, has maintained a tough position on migration. During her tenure as prime minister, however, she has also moved closer to the European Union establishment.

Policies ahead of next year’s election

With a general election due next year, Meloni’s government is also introducing measures aimed at addressing domestic concerns, including an exemption from a property tax on small and medium-sized cars and scooters.

Italy’s longest-serving government since World War II

Earlier this month, Meloni’s conservative administration became Italy’s longest-serving uninterrupted government since World War II.