Rome (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – MEP Mario Furore criticized the League for focusing on controversial Erasmus funds instead of addressing real issues.
Mario Furore, MEP of the 5 Star Movement, commented in a note that the League’s recent focus on controversial issues relating to Erasmus funds for incorporating LGBTIQ students, appears to be a distraction due to a lack of substantive proposals.
How has Italy’s LGBTQ+ situation worsened under the League?
According to analysis, the situation has deteriorated for Italy’s LGBTQ+ people since the League coalition government under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took over in 2022. For years, Italy has been in the lowest third of the ILGA ranking due to inequality concerning parenthood, adoption and marriage rights.
Moreover, Italy’s deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini faced an open revolt in May 2024 against his leadership of the far-right League party after he chose a homophobic, firebrand as a top contender for the European elections.
What data does Furore say the League ignores?
He highlighted that the controversy does not consider significant data, such as the 149 cases of violence and discrimination against LGBTIQ individuals in Italy last year. It includes three murders and the tragic suicide of a 13-year-old boy in Palermo who was bullied for being gay. Furore also pointed out that over a third of LGBTIQ people in Europe report daily discrimination.
He suggested that Erasmus’s moments of exchange can promote understanding and normalize diversity. Moreover, schools and universities play a crucial role in enhancing social acceptance and preventing bullying.
How do Italian income and the Austerity Package affect citizens?
Furore advised the League’s MEPs to address pressing issues affecting citizens. It includes the declining income of Italians and the Austerity Package approved by Minister Giorgetti. It will impose 13 billion euros in cuts over seven years. He urged them to stop spreading hatred and misleading the public.
