Italy Enacts Security Decree Targeting Protests, Squatting, and Cannabis Industry

LOS ANGELES— Italy’s Senate has passed a comprehensive security decree introduced by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing coalition, intensifying penalties for public demonstrations, unauthorized property occupations, and the commercial sale of certain cannabis products. The legislation, approved with 109 votes in favor, 69 against, and one abstention, follows prior approval by the lower house and has prompted significant domestic and international criticism.

The decree introduces 14 new criminal offenses and nine aggravating circumstances. Notably, it criminalizes the obstruction of roads and railways during protests, with potential penalties of up to two years in prison. Passive resistance in prisons and migrant detention centers is also penalized. Additionally, the law removes exemptions from incarceration for pregnant women and mothers of young children, a measure aimed at addressing perceived exploitation of legal loopholes

The legislation enhances protections for law enforcement personnel, providing up to €10,000 in legal aid for officers under investigation for actions taken during official duties. It also grants broader powers to intelligence agencies, allowing certain activities without prosecution when deemed necessary for national security .

In response to an estimated 50,000 illegally occupied properties across Italy, the decree introduces Article 634-bis to the Penal Code. This provision imposes prison sentences ranging from two to seven years for individuals found guilty of unlawfully occupying residential properties. The law also expedites eviction procedures, permitting authorities to remove occupants without a court order in cases of illegitimate occupation .

Restrictions on Cannabis Industry

The decree significantly impacts Italy’s hemp and cannabis sector by banning the production, processing, and sale of cannabis flowers, including non-psychoactive “cannabis light” products. This move aligns with a broader governmental stance equating industrial hemp flowers with high-THC cannabis, effectively classifying them as narcotics. The ban extends to all oral CBD products, regardless of their source within the cannabis plant

Industry stakeholders have expressed concern over the economic implications, noting that the hemp sector comprises approximately 3,000 companies, employs around 30,000 individuals, and generates an estimated €500 million in annual revenue, with 90% attributed to exports. Regional agricultural representatives have requested a governmental review of the decree to mitigate adverse effects on the industry.

The decree’s passage has incited protests from opposition parties and civil rights organizations, who argue that the measures infringe upon civil liberties and democratic principles. Demonstrations have occurred nationwide, with critics labeling the law as repressive and a threat to fundamental rights

Prime Minister Meloni and her administration defend the decree as a necessary step to enhance public safety and uphold the rule of law. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi described the legislation as a strategic measure to combat crime and terrorism, asserting that it provides law enforcement with effective tools to protect citizens

The enactment of this security decree reflects the Meloni government’s commitment to a stringent law-and-order agenda, marking a significant shift in Italy’s approach to public security, property rights, and cannabis regulation.