Elly Schlein, the secretary of the Democratic Party (PD), expressed a strong stance on citizenship reform during her interview with SkyTg24. She emphasized that anyone born or raised in Italy should be considered Italian, advocating for a change in the citizenship law that has been pending for three decades. Schlein stated, “We are open to discussions about the reform, even with Forza Italia if they are willing to engage. However, we will not continue to mislead those who have been waiting for this legal modification.” She further highlighted that classrooms should not be divided into Italians and foreigners but rather seen as inclusive spaces where all children deserve access to quality education.
In stark contrast, Matteo Salvini, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, dismissed the notion of an “Ius Italia” citizenship proposal. In an interview with Il Giornale, he criticized the ongoing debate about citizenship, labeling it as surreal. “We should focus on wages, pensions, and supporting businesses,” he argued, emphasizing that Italy already grants more citizenships than any other European country. Salvini firmly rejected any proposals aimed at easing the path to citizenship, suggesting instead that immigrants who commit crimes should face the revocation of their citizenship.
Salvini further illustrated his viewpoint by comparing citizenship to giving someone a duplicate set of keys to his home. He stated, “If you throw a party with drugs and chaos in my house, I will take back the keys.” He expressed disappointment that such discussions are typically initiated by the left, indicating that his party remains steadfast against what he perceives as a push for easier citizenship protocols. Despite the differences, he affirmed his alignment with coalition partners, asserting, “We will govern together for another three years.”
The ongoing debate surrounding citizenship laws in Italy reflects a broader discussion about national identity and inclusion, with Schlein and Salvini embodying two contrasting visions for the future of Italian society. As both parties engage in dialogue, the stakes are high for the communities affected by these legislative decisions, with many hoping for a resolution that acknowledges the complexities of citizenship in a multicultural Italy.
