ROME — Tens of thousands of people took part in rival demonstrations over migration in Italy on Saturday, with anti-migration and pro-migration groups holding separate marches in Rome amid heightened political debate over immigration policy and a recently submitted citizens’ initiative that is set to be discussed in parliament.
The demonstrations drew participants from across Italy and were among the largest public mobilizations on migration in recent months. Organizers of the anti-migration march supported a proposal known as “Remigration and Reconquest,” which secured the 50,000 signatures required under Italian procedures to trigger parliamentary consideration. No date has been announced for a parliamentary vote, according to reports.
Several thousand people joined the anti-migration rally, while a larger counter-demonstration in support of migrant rights and against racism attracted tens of thousands of participants, according to media reports citing organizers and authorities. Police maintained a large security presence to keep the groups apart and monitor public order.
The proposed initiative calls for measures including incentives for some migrants to leave Italy and broader deportation policies. Supporters argue the measures are necessary to address immigration pressures, while critics say the proposal could affect legal residents and raise concerns under anti-discrimination laws.
At the anti-migration march, demonstrators sang the Italian national anthem and carried banners calling for stricter immigration controls. Some participants shouted slogans associated with Italy’s fascist era, according to Associated Press reporting. Meanwhile, pro-migration demonstrators carried signs supporting migrant rights and opposing deportation policies.
“We are here to defend the rights of all people and oppose discrimination,” one participant at the pro-migration rally said, according to local media coverage. Supporters of the anti-migration initiative said the proposal reflected concerns shared by many Italians regarding immigration management. Details on the identities of those quoted remain limited in available reports.
The rallies took place days after new European Union migration and asylum rules formally entered into force. The reforms aim to strengthen border management and accelerate asylum procedures across the bloc, though debate continues over their likely impact.
By late Saturday, authorities reported no major incidents, and the rival demonstrations concluded peacefully. Parliament is expected to consider the citizens’ initiative at a later date, though officials have not announced a timetable.
