Rome : Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has taken a significant step toward banning face-covering Islamic garments such as burqas and niqabs in public spaces. A newly proposed bill aims to restrict these garments in areas including schools, offices, shopping centers, and universities.

The government argues that such clothing presents challenges for public safety, personal identification, and gender equality. While the exact penalty amount has not yet been disclosed, violators would face fines under the proposed legislation.

Known for her nationalist and conservative views, Meloni emphasized that the move is not anti-religion but focused on promoting transparency, integration, and preserving Italy’s cultural identity. According to her, full-face coverings not only hinder communication and public interaction but also restrict women’s freedom.

The proposed law has sparked strong reactions. Supporters hail it as a necessary measure to safeguard national values and uphold women’s rights. In contrast, opposition parties and human rights groups argue that it unfairly targets Muslim women and infringes on individual religious freedoms.

Critics have also raised concerns about whether the bill aligns with Italy’s constitutional protections for religious expression and personal liberty. However, Meloni insists the intent is to ensure social cohesion and public order, not to marginalize any particular community.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, the debate highlights a growing tension between cultural preservation and pluralism in modern Europe.