Burqas, Niqabs Out of Schools and Limits Non-Italian Speakers in Classrooms to 30% Under New Italian Decree
What Happened
Italy’s government, led by Giorgia Meloni, has approved a school decree that bans full-face veils such as burqas and niqabs in schools and introduces a 30% cap on students with inadequate Italian-language skills in classrooms. The government says the measures are intended to improve integration, prevent the formation of "ghetto classrooms," and give all students equal educational opportunities. Traditional Islamic headscarves, such as the hijab, are not covered by the ban.
Key Takeaways
The move reflects Italy's tougher approach to integration and migration ahead of expected elections. Supporters say the policy will improve language learning and classroom integration, while critics argue it could stigmatize migrant communities and create divisions among students.