PoliticsWhy Italian protesters face growing fines and restrictions | Focus on Europe

Italy’s right-wing government has continued expanding its security laws, bringing tougher penalties for protests, strikes and civil disobedience. Activists and unions say they are facing fines, restrictions and stepped-up surveillance. Critics caution that the measures are placing mounting pressure on freedom of assembly. The government maintains that the policies are needed to strike a balance between public security and civil liberties.