Italy plans to reintroduce border checks with Slovenia, citing a rise in crisis outbreaks at European borders that heightens the threat of violence, especially in the wake of the attack on Israel and growing immigration pressure, according to statements from the Italian government led by Giorgia Meloni.
The decision was communicated by Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi to European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas and to interior ministers from EU member states and related officials within the Schengen area.
The measure would run for an initial period and could be extended by ten days starting October 21, with authorities noting that current police measures at the Italy-Slovenia border do not fully guarantee security in light of national assessments.
The government warns that the level of violent threats could rise across the EU in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict. It also points to ongoing migration pressures by sea and land, projecting that thousands could reach Italian shores this year, with figures showing a higher influx compared to 2022.
With respect to the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, which borders Slovenia and Austria, officials report that hundreds of thousands of people from the Balkans have entered the country irregularly since the start of the year.
This situation, discussed by the Anti-Terrorism Strategic Analysis Commission formed within the Interior Ministry, reinforces the need to strengthen prevention and control measures.
The border controls will be applied in a way that preserves proportionality, adjusts to the level of threat, and minimizes disruption to cross-border traffic and freight. Officials will monitor developments and assess the effectiveness of the measures with the aim of restoring full freedom of movement as soon as possible.
The government described the move as good news that demonstrates seriousness and resolve in the face of a shifting international landscape. It urged continued steps to defend Italy and its borders, a message echoed by the leadership of the governing coalition.
The reintroduction of internal border controls relies on Article 28 of the Schengen Border Code, which allows a member state to establish immediate border checks at internal borders for a limited period when public order or internal security requires urgent action. That period is not to exceed ten days.