Italy Moves To Ban Burqa, Restrict Mosque Funding, And Criminalize 'Virginity Certificates' In Migration Crackdown

Italy’s ruling Brothers of Italy party unveiled a bill to combat what it calls “Islamic separatism,” proposing a national ban on full-face coverings like the burqa and niqab, tighter controls on foreign mosque funding and hate preachers, tougher penalties for forced and child marriages, and the criminalization of virginity examinations and “virginity certificates.” Supporters frame it as defending women’s dignity and integration; critics note some measures may duplicate existing local or security laws and risk discrimination. The proposal aligns with broader European moves toward stricter migration and integration policies and could face legal and implementation tests if advanced. The bill has support from coalition partners and is drawing scrutiny from rights groups and religious leaders.