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‘Freedom-killing monster’: Illegal rave crackdown in Italy draws criticism

By Angela Giuffrida

02 Nov 2022 · 2 min read

Editor's Note

A move by Italy's new government to stamp out illegal raves has gone down badly - and not just among partygoers. Opposition politicians and even Amnesty International have also weighed in.

A law enacted by Giorgia Meloni’s government that punishes organisers of illegal raves with hefty jail terms has triggered widespread criticism in Italy, with one opponent describing the measure as “a freedom-killing monster”.

A three-day-long Halloween party in Modena was the catalyst for the swift enactment of legislation that will punish organisers or promoters of gatherings that put public order or safety at risk with prison sentences of between three and six years and fines ranging from €1,000 to €10,000. Penalties for those who participate in what the decree describes as an “invasion” have not been outlined, but they will be less severe.

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