Italy Faces Backlash Over Bill to Ban Hijab and Tighten Mosque Oversight

Italy Faces Backlash Over Bill to Ban Hijab and Tighten Mosque Oversight
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A new bill proposed by Italy’s ruling right-wing party to ban the wearing of hijabs and face veils in public has sparked widespread controversy and protests across the country.

According to The Guardian, the legislation goes beyond restricting face coverings, introducing strict government oversight of mosque funding, management, and religious activities. It would also require official local authorization for the construction or expansion of any new mosque.

Critics argue the proposal violates the religious rights of Muslims and risks fueling discrimination and anti-Islam sentiment in Italy. Civil rights groups and opposition lawmakers have warned that such measures could deepen social divisions and stigmatize Muslim communities.

Meanwhile, international human rights organizations have urged Italian authorities to immediately review or withdraw the proposed restrictions, calling them a threat to freedom of religion and expression and a potential trigger for social unrest.