Rome – Former military general and current Member of the European Parliament, Roberto Vannacci, today launched a sweeping security package centered around a “zero tolerance” approach to crime. The plan, unveiled at a press conference in Rome, proposes significant changes to Italy’s security decree, aiming to grant law enforcement greater latitude in the leverage of force and provide stronger legal protections for officers. The slogan, a direct reference to the policies of former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, was prominently displayed throughout the event.
Vannacci, leader of the newly formed National Future party, framed the proposals as a necessary response to rising crime and a perceived weakening of law enforcement authority. The package goes further than the government’s existing security decree, focusing heavily on bolstering protections for police and increasing penalties for offenders. This move signals a clear attempt to position National Future as a leading voice on law and order ahead of potential alliances and the 2027 elections.
Enhanced Protections for Law Enforcement
A core component of Vannacci’s plan is the creation of a “criminal shield” for law enforcement officials. He argued that the current provisions within the government’s security decree, specifically the separate investigation register, are insufficient. Vannacci contends that officers following established procedures “should not be investigated at all,” advocating for “substantial protection” against prosecution for culpable offenses like manslaughter and injury committed while performing their duties. The proposal also includes full reimbursement of legal costs for officers involved in such cases, with potential repercussions on careers and salaries only after a first-instance conviction.
Beyond the “criminal shield,” Vannacci called for freer hands in the use of weapons, moving beyond the principle of proportionality in self-defense. This aspect of the plan has already drawn scrutiny, raising questions about potential abuses of power.
Expanding Self-Defense Rights and Penalties for Offenders
The security package also proposes broadening the scope of legitimate self-defense, extending it to homeowners reacting to burglaries. Vannacci stated that individuals acting in self-defense “are not liable and the victim cannot continue to be the attacker’s ATM machine.” the plan outlines harsher penalties, including fines, for offenders at public events, prioritizing these over preventative detention for potential troublemakers.
Military Deployment and Political Strategy
In a surprising proposal, Vannacci suggested deploying paratroopers to the Rogoredo area of Milan, stating they could “rake the area, reclaiming it.” He dismissed the use of armored vehicles seen earlier at Termini station in Rome as ineffective. This call for military intervention in domestic security has sparked debate about the appropriate role of the armed forces.
Vannacci also addressed his party’s political strategy, stating that National Future, which has existed for one month, will not use its symbol in administrative elections in 2026. He indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue with the center-right coalition, with formal alliance assessments to be made after the political elections. According to Il Sole 24 Ore, Vannacci intends to present the security package, along with a bill on family and remigration, on March 4th.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has downplayed the significance of Vannacci’s departure from the League, stating the matter is “closed.” La Milano reports Salvini also addressed the issue of bail for court appearances, indicating it may not be included in the current security decree due to urgency but remains a priority for the end of the legislature.
The proposals outlined today represent a significant shift towards a more hardline approach to security in Italy. The coming weeks will be crucial as the security decree is debated in Parliament and the political implications of Vannacci’s new party become clearer. The debate over the balance between law enforcement powers and civil liberties is likely to intensify as these proposals move forward.
What remains to be seen is how the governing coalition will respond to Vannacci’s proposals and whether National Future can successfully carve out a distinct space within the Italian political landscape. Further developments are expected as the security decree progresses through the legislative process.
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