Rome: Italy is set to introduce major changes in its school system, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announcing plans to ban face-covering veils such as burqas and niqabs in classrooms and limit the number of foreign students in schools.
The proposed measures are part of the government’s broader focus on improving integration, language learning and adapting foreign students to Italy’s education system. Meloni said schools should remain spaces where students can communicate openly and participate fully in classroom activities.
Under the proposed rules, students would not be allowed to wear full face-covering garments, including burqas and niqabs, inside schools. The government has argued that visible communication and interaction are important parts of the learning environment.
The announcement has sparked debate in Italy, with supporters calling it a step towards integration, while critics have raised questions about religious freedom and individual choices.
Along with the face veil restriction, Meloni’s government plans to introduce limits on the number of foreign students allowed in classrooms. The move aims to address concerns related to language barriers and classroom integration.
The government has also proposed stronger language requirements for parents of foreign students who face difficulties integrating into Italian society.
The proposed measures come amid a wider European discussion over immigration, cultural integration and religious symbols in public institutions. Several European countries have already introduced different levels of restrictions on face-covering garments in public spaces and educational institutions.
The proposals are expected to go through the legislative process before becoming official rules.
