The Italian Chamber of Deputies began this Tuesday, in second reading, the discussion of the new Decree-Law 36 Regarding Italian citizenship. The proposal has been the target of harsh criticism from parliamentarians elected abroad.
Nicola Carè, a member of parliament for the Democratic Party (PD), said the text represents “a deep, painful and unjust wound.” He said the decree is not a reform, but rather “a step back” in the recognition of citizenship by descent, the so-called jus sanguinis.
According to Carè, the decree was drawn up with “artificial urgency” and “cynical bureaucracy”, with the aim of “hiding a political decision under the pretext of administrative risk”.
For the parliamentarian, the measure creates a barrier against descendants of Italians living outside the country. “It directly affects the principle of jus sanguinis. It limits its transmission, restricts retroactivity and empties its meaning,” he declared.
The deputy also highlighted that the main victims will not be the so-called "passport savvy," as suggested in official speeches. "The real victims will be the families. Children and grandchildren of Italian emigrants who, after decades of sacrifice, will hear: 'You are not Italian enough to deserve your grandfather's citizenship.'"
For Carè, the decree ignores the history of Italian emigration, marked by hardships and lasting ties with the country of origin. “This identity cannot be erased. Those with Italian blood cannot be denied the right to feel part of the Republic,” he said.
At the end of his speech, Carè reiterated the PD's firm opposition to the decree and assured that the party will continue to fight against the measure “inside and outside Parliament”.
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