The government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has approved a package of measures that tightens accountability for violence during protests in Italy, while in France a bill on the financial liability of participants in riots is being prepared.
Italy: parental liability and criminal sanctions
The adopted decree introduces criminal liability for participants in groups of at least five people who create a threat to public safety during demonstrations: penalties include imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to €20,000. Sanctions are increased if participants conceal their faces or if there are victims as a result of violence.
The compensation mechanism has been broadened: for damage caused by minors, financial responsibility can be placed on their parents, and the state will be able to recover compensation via assets and income, including by withholding funds from social benefits.
The police have been given the power to detain adolescents aged 14 to 17 if there is evidence that they pose a danger, even when they have not yet committed a crime. To strengthen oversight, the government decided to deploy 500 troops to Milan for security duties until the end of the year.
The decree has already come into force, but for its provisions to be final the parliament must convert it into law within 60 days.
France: ‘Rioters Pay’ bill and tougher security measures
In France a bill known as ‘Rioters Pay’ is being prepared, which provides that those found guilty of vandalism may be required to compensate damages up to €10,000. In cases of property damage, minors can also have responsibility shifted to their parents, and the idea of collective civil liability for group participants is also under consideration.
The government has already stepped up security measures: by various estimates hundreds of thousands took part in the demonstrations, and around 70,000 security personnel were deployed to maintain order, including specialised counter‑terrorism units. Despite isolated clashes, the authorities said they managed to avoid the large‑scale riots and looting that occurred previously.
The bill is scheduled to be debated on 27 October, and the new rules are intended to strengthen existing civil law provisions under which parents can be held responsible for damage caused by their minor children.
