Italy referendum seeks to repeal law restricting school sex education

A signature collection drive for a referendum seeking to repeal Law 104/2026 in Italy has reached 500,000 signatures. The proposed referendum aims to abolish the current law, which requires explicit parental consent for sexual and affective education programs in schools and restricts such activities to higher grade levels, excluding nursery and primary schools.

Proponents of the initiative argue that structured educational paths regarding sexuality, consent, and healthy relationships are essential tools for prevention against gender-based violence and abuse. Supporters, including the FLC CGIL union, emphasize that schools should provide a centralized role in educating younger generations on these topics to foster awareness and relational skills.

The debate highlights a tension between current legislative restrictions and calls for reinforced educational frameworks to address modern challenges such as social media influence and gender stereotypes.