Far-right party pushes for stricter citizenship rules in Italy

Italy's far-right Futuro Nazionale party is demanding a major tightening of citizenship rules, including a 20-year residency requirement and proof of "assimilation to Greco-Roman civilisation," according to The Local Italy.

The proposal comes as Italy's governing parties race to appear tougher on citizenship ahead of expected electoral contests. The new party, which has positioned itself to the right of the ruling coalition, argues that current rules are too lenient and that citizenship should be reserved for those who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to Italy.

The demands include a requirement to speak fluent Italian and to demonstrate knowledge of Italy's cultural heritage. The party's reference to "Greco-Roman civilisation" reflects a broader ideological framing that ties Italian identity to classical antiquity, a theme that resonates in regions like Marche, home to the Roman ruins at Urbisaglia and the Renaissance heritage of Urbino.