Trentino approves citizenship for descendants of emigrants, but debates immigrant rights

In a significant move, the Trentino provincial council has unanimously approved a proposal to grant Italian citizenship to descendants of Trentino emigrants residing abroad. The decision, championed by councilor Michele Malfer, aims to acknowledge the historical, cultural, and identity ties connecting the region with its diaspora.

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We are not asking for territorial privileges, but for the recognition of a particular historical circumstance.

The approved text specifically urges the Italian government to reopen the window for citizenship applications for these descendants. Councilors emphasized the importance of recognizing the historical significance of Trentino's emigration, particularly to South America, and maintaining the bond with global Italian communities. "We are not asking for territorial privileges, but for the recognition of a particular historical circumstance," stated Malfer, framing the issue as one of "historical justice."

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This is a matter of historical justice towards communities that continue to keep alive a strong cultural and identity bond with Trentino.

While the measure concerning descendants received widespread support, the debate took a sharp turn when discussing the possibility of granting similar rights to immigrants currently living in Trentino. Councilor Francesca Parolari of the Democratic Party pointed out a "clamorous and unacceptable political contradiction." She argued that it is inconsistent to advocate for the rights of descendants abroad while simultaneously hindering citizenship recognition for regularly residing immigrants and their children who contribute to the region's economy and social fabric.

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The modifications introduced in 2025 risk excluding those communities that have managed to preserve the strongest link with Trentino.

Parolari stressed that these immigrants "pay taxes and contribute to the growth of the territory," and their children "live and grow up here." She concluded with a strong statement: "One cannot defend the right to identity overseas and trample on the right to integration on one's own doorstep." Lucia Coppola of Avs echoed this sentiment, referencing an initiative by the Municipality of Trento concerning integration.

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A clamorous and unacceptable political contradiction. Coherence that we struggle to see on this side of the hemicycle.