Italy debates antisemitism bill amid free speech concerns

A proposed bill to combat antisemitism has reached the Italian Chamber of Deputies following approval by the Senate and the Constitutional Affairs Commission. The legislation adopts the operational definition used by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) and outlines a three-year national strategy.

The bill has sparked significant political debate. Critics, including members of the Five Star Movement and Avs, have labeled it a “gag law,” arguing that it could be used to silence criticism of Israeli foreign policy by conflating such critiques with antisemitism. Professor Enrico Michetti has raised constitutional concerns, questioning whether the bill provides preferential legal protection to one religion over others, which may conflict with the principle of equality under Italian law.

Additionally, Article 2 of the text mandates specific training for military personnel, magistrates, prefects, police, and teachers regarding Jewish and Israeli culture. This provision has drawn scrutiny regarding the secular nature of the state and the necessity of such specific cultural training for state officials.