Italy has announced new security measures following violent clashes in Milan, including the deployment of 500 additional soldiers to the city and tougher penalties for those involved in violent demonstrations.

The measures were approved by the Italian government after a weekend of unrest in Milan that saw clashes between protesters and police, looting, vandalism and damage to businesses. The additional military personnel will support security operations in Milan until the end of the year, helping protect sensitive locations and strengthen monitoring efforts.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the participation of large numbers of young people in violent incidents was "painful and concerning," arguing that some youths had joined demonstrations to damage property, steal and record their actions.

New penalties for violent protests

Under the new security decree, Italy plans to introduce a new offence covering violent participation in demonstrations.

Those convicted under the new provision could face up to five years in prison and fines of up to 20,000 euros. Penalties may be increased if protesters conceal their faces or if someone is injured during the incidents.

The decree also includes measures making participants responsible for damage caused during violent protests. In cases involving minors, parents could be held financially responsible for property damage caused by their children.

The government also plans changes regarding criminal responsibility for minors. Under the new rules, people aged 14 and above would be presumed capable of understanding the consequences of their actions unless proven otherwise.

More than 100 police officers injured in Milan unrest

The measures follow two days of violent incidents in central Milan, where police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse groups of protesters after clashes broke out.

Authorities said demonstrators damaged shops, looted businesses and started fires in several locations. More than 100 police officers were injured during the unrest, while dozens of people were detained.

Police said around 2,000 young people took part in the unrest in Milan. Authorities reported that some participants were foreign nationals or people from immigrant backgrounds who later acquired Italian citizenship.

The government said it would also increase capacity in detention facilities and strengthen the juvenile justice system by adding more judges and resources.

Government faces debate over security measures

The decree must be converted into law by the Italian parliament within 60 days to remain in force.

The government argues that the measures are necessary to restore public order and prevent further violence, while critics have raised concerns over the impact of tougher rules on the right to peaceful protest.

The unrest in Milan occurred during a period of wider social tensions in Europe, with protests over rising living costs and public services also reported in France and other countries.(ILKHA)