Italy Passes School Rule With 30% Foreign-Pupil Cap
Italy's government passed a new school rule. It limits foreign pupils in first-year classrooms.
The cap is set at 30%. Sources differ on how pupils are counted.
The Guardian says it covers newly arrived migrants. Deutsche Welle says it covers non-fluent Italian speakers.
The rule takes effect in the 2027-28 school year. The same rule also bans the burqa and niqab in schools.
This applies during school activities and school-family meetings. Health and safety exceptions apply.
Fines for breaking the ban may reach 1,000 euros. Rights campaigners accused the government of using divisive language.
They say leaders want to attract far-right voters. Italy holds its next general election next year.
Educators, unions and opposition parties raised concerns. They warned the cap could send children to distant schools.
Key Terms 4
- Deutsche Welle A German international news organization.
- burqa A full-body covering worn by some Muslim women.
- niqab A face veil worn by some Muslim women.
- far-right Political movement with strongly nationalist views.