Argentina’s President Milei Granted Italian Citizenship, Sparking Controversy Over Migrant Laws

The Italian government has conferred citizenship on Argentina’s President, Javier Milei, over his Italian roots, prompting opposition politicians to criticize the move. Milei, who is in Rome to meet Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and attend her Brothers of Italy party’s annual festival, was reportedly given the Italian passport based on his family roots.

The move, confirmed by a source close to the matter, has sparked widespread criticism from opponents who pointed out the contrast between the easy citizenship approval for Milei and the arduous process for children born in Italy to migrant parents. Italy’s citizenship laws are based on the principle of “jus sanguinis” (right of blood), making it easier for descendants of Italian nationals to acquire citizenship, while children born in Italy or foreigners residing there face stricter requirements.

Riccardo Magi, a lawmaker from the opposition Europa party, condemned the decision, calling it “intolerable discrimination” against young people who will have to wait many years to obtain citizenship. Pro-migrant groups have long advocated for a reform in Italy’s citizenship laws, though Meloni’s right-wing coalition has resisted changes.

Milei, whose three grandparents come from Italian stock, has frequently demonstrated his attachment to Italy. Last February, he said in an interview that he felt “75% Italian” and was passionate about Italian opera. Both Milei and Meloni, the conservative leaders, formed a tight political alliance: Milei gave Meloni a statuette of himself with his chainsaw chains at their meeting in Buenos Aires last month.