Citizenship legislation in Italy has been the subject of intense debate, especially with regard to the principle of jus sanguinis, which recognizes citizenship based on direct descent from Italians.
The Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has taken a firm stance in favor of this criterion. During the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, she declared that “Italy does not need new citizenship laws, since the current one is efficient.”
Meloni can count on the loyal warrior Matteo Salvini, from the Lega, and deputy prime minister, who also believes that the current law is fair and that it is “not a priority” for the government to reform it.
Fire friend
However, this view is not shared by everyone within the government. Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, leader of the party Forza Italy, has defended the adoption of more rigorous criteria for the recognition of citizenship by descent.
Tajani expressed concern that many people who obtain Italian citizenship "don't even know the Italian language" and only want a strong passport. In response, the Forza Italia has presented a bill aiming to restrict citizenship by jus sanguinis, especially for second-generation descendants. In other words, the law would be maintained, but with strict rules.
Hidden forces
Judges and part of the Italian press are also pushing for a review of current rules, seeking to align them with European standards and ensuring that citizenship is granted more carefully.
Despite these moves, Meloni has maintained his position, reiterating that the issue is not a priority for the government at the moment. This stance suggests that, although there is pressure for change, the current administration prefers to focus on other political agendas.
However, Tajani is working behind the scenes to convince more allies.
Thus, the question remains as to how long Meloni and Salvini will be able to sustain the defense of jus sanguinis.
Internal disagreements and pressure from sectors of society indicate that the debate on Italian citizenship reform will continue to be a relevant topic in the coming months.
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