Italy’s upper house of parliament has passed a contentious new law aimed at tightening restrictions on public demonstrations and enhancing legal protections for law enforcement personnel. The measure, known as the Security Decree, was approved with 109 votes in favor, 69 against, and one abstention, following its earlier passage in the lower house.

The legislation, pushed forward by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing administration, introduces harsher penalties for offenses tied to protests, such as damaging property or staging obstructive sit-ins. It also broadens the legal scope for intelligence operations by permitting agents to commit certain offenses in the name of national security without fear of prosecution.

Additionally, the law establishes a specific criminal offense for injuring police officers while on duty and earmarks up to €10,000 to cover legal costs for officers facing investigation for actions taken during the course of their duties.

Meloni described the legislation as a decisive effort to protect citizens, vulnerable groups, and law enforcement officers. The law also increases sentences for individuals who engage in riots or defy orders in prisons and detention centers, and introduces measures against pickpocketing—particularly targeting those who use claims of pregnancy to avoid detention.

Framed as part of a broader promise to deliver “a safer Italy,” the decree has triggered widespread protests throughout the country. Critics, including human rights organizations, have accused the government of suppressing dissent and curbing civil liberties, warning that the legislation undermines fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

Opponents have also pointed to the political roots of Meloni’s party, warning that the crackdown on protest and expansion of police authority align with authoritarian tactics. Concerns were previously raised by European human rights officials, who suggested the law could breach international standards, particularly with respect to protesters, migrants, and young activists.

In a dramatic moment before the final vote, members of the center-left opposition staged a sit-in on the Senate floor, chanting “shame” in protest. Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein criticized the decree, calling it “a law of repression, not security.”