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The recent ruling of the Constitutional Court has paved the way for a referendum that could significantly change the rules for obtaining Italian citizenship by non-EU citizens. The proposal to reduce the waiting period from 10 to 5 years represents not only a regulatory change, but also an important step towards social inclusion and the integration of increasingly diverse communities into the Italian fabric.
The reasons of the Constitutional Court
According to the judges, the referendum question is “homogeneous, clear and univocal”, which means that voters will be able to easily understand the issue at stake. The Court stressed that the request does not contradict the abrogative nature of the referendum, thus allowing a public debate on a highly relevant issue. This approach aims to ensure that every citizen, regardless of their origin, can have access to the fundamental rights that Italian citizenship entails.
Implications for Italian society
The proposed change is not just a legal issue, but has profound social implications. Reducing the waiting time for citizenship could encourage the integration of many non-EU citizens, encouraging their active participation in the political and social life of the country. Furthermore, it could help fight discrimination and promote a more cohesive and inclusive society. Citizenship is not just a document, but a symbol of belonging and rights, and faster access to it could lead to greater stability and prosperity for all.