The Italian left would grant citizenship to immigrants

Debate reignites in Italy on expanding citizenship approvals. The question of citizenship has resurfaced in light of the Olympic Games, as many second-generation athletes of color representing Italy have brought glory to the country.

Elly Sclein, the Secretary General of the Democratic Party, announced that anyone born and educated in Italy has the right to Italian citizenship. Opposition parties, including the Five Star Movement and smaller left-wing groups, have joined the Democratic Party’s stance. The More Europe party has announced a referendum to allow citizens to have a say in the long-debated issue. It is expected that the Italian left will once again begin the fight for granting citizenship to immigrants in September.

The media reports an interesting development as the issue divides the center-right coalition government parties. While Brothers of Italy and the League categorically reject any changes to the current laws, Forza Italia would make some concessions.

Opposition parties have been advocating for the introduction of “ius soli,” which would allow children of foreigners born in Italy to acquire citizenship.

Forza Italia leans towards allowing “ius scholae” to facilitate integration. This would allow students studying in Italy to acquire Italian citizenship. However, the majority of the government strongly opposes any changes.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini quickly responded to the Democratic Party’s provocation by emphasizing that there will be no selling of Italian citizenship.

He stressed that granting citizenship to minors poses several complications, as if parents commit a crime, it may become impossible to deport them due to their minor Italian citizen child.

Nicola Molteni, State Secretary for the Interior and representative of the League, stated that no changes will be allowed as long as they are in government. Voters supported the center-right coalition to maintain the current legislation, which has been working excellently.

Undoubtedly, the Italian society has significantly changed over the past thirty years due to immigration, but this does not necessitate the introduction of further concessions. Countries struggling with migration for a long time have not done so

– he added. The League politician believes that “ius soli,” “ius culturae,” and “ius scholae” are merely part of the left’s ideological battle. He also emphasized that citizenship approval will not aid integration. On the contrary, it should only be granted to those who have already integrated and respect the country’s laws and culture.

He also mentioned that immigrant children receive the same services as Italian children. Amending the law would undoubtedly have a huge impact on society, granting citizenship to millions of immigrants living in Italy. Currently, “ius sanguinis” is in effect, meaning that citizenship is obtained at birth based on the principle of blood relation, where at least one parent is Italian.