After one year and four months of unsuccessful parliamentary efforts, the flagship security policy of the Italian government, dominated by the far right, finally materialized by decree on Friday, April 4. While limited clashes erupted in Rome between protesters opposing the legislation and law enforcement, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni explained that she and her allies had opted for it to be implemented immediately. Initially presented to Parliament at the end of 2023, the security bill was stalled between the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies for budgetary reasons in the context of strong reservations from the head of state, Sergio Mattarella.

As the guarantor of respect for the Constitution, Mattarella had highlighted the incompatibility of the harshest measures with its principles, which ultimately led to their softening or removal. This moderating effect sparked negative reactions within the League, the most radical party in the ruling coalition, currently engaged in a right-wing escalation aligned with themes dear to the Trump administration.

The decree, which takes effect immediately and must be confirmed by Parliament within 60 days, includes legal protection measures aimed at law enforcement. Under Meloni's term in office, which began in 2022, public opinion has been marked by controversial incidents of police violence. Like the military, police officers accused of criminal offenses or involved in judicial investigations will now have the right to continue working. Additionally, state financial assistance may be granted to help them cover necessary defense expenses. "These are necessary measures that we can no longer delay," said the prime minister, describing them as "sacrosanct."

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