Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is positioning herself as a strong leader by significantly expanding the powers of the police. This move comes amidst growing tensions following street protests in Turin against the closure of the leftist Askatasuna community center. Critics of the government worry that the new security measures will be used to silence dissent and stifle left-wing protests, raising questions about civil liberties in the country.

The new decree, effective from February 5, aims to enhance the police's ability to maintain public order, which Justice Minister Carlo Nordio links to the need to prevent the resurgence of the Red Brigades, a notorious far-left militant organization that was active in Italy during the 1970s and 1980s. The minister's comments highlight the government's focus on addressing perceived threats from extremism, while critics argue that the measures may disproportionately impact peaceful protesters and political opponents.

In the aftermath of the Turin unrest, which included a violent assault on a police officer, Meloni visited injured officers and reiterated her commitment to restoring order in the country. Her remarks emphasize a broader political identity aimed at enforcing strict regulations on civil disorder. This strategy not only seeks to reassure the public of their safety but also to solidify Meloni's political base, raising questions about the balance between security and individual rights in Italy's current political climate.