The ambiguous status of religion in Italian public education: A (bad) model for Europe? Conference on Law, Religion and Education Marco Ventura Oxford, 8 October 2010

1. The role of the state in education (1860-). 2. The place of religion in public education (1924-). 3. Pluralism and religion in public education (1948-). 4. Discrimination, choice and religion in state schools (1984-). 5. Culture, traditions and religion in public education (2001-). The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

1. The role of the state in education (1860-). State education is established against the Catholic Church in order to build national unity. Monasteries are confiscated and transformed in state schools. Gabrio Casati The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

2. The place of religion in public education (1922-) Mussolini reintroduces the crucifix in state schools 1929 Compulsory Catholic religious classes are taught in state schools as the “foundation and the crown of public instruction” (Concordat, art. 36). The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

3. Pluralism and religion in public education (1948-). Constitution of 1948 Christianity is not mentioned. Art. 3 forbids religious discrimination Art. 7 recognizes the independence of Italy and the Catholic Church The same article provides for the 1929 Concordat to stay so that religious classes are safeguarded. The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

4. Discrimination, choice and religion in state schools (1984-). Concordat of 1984, Art. 9 “Recognising the value of religious culture and having in mind that the principles of Catholicism are a part of the historical heritage of the Italian people” Catholic religious classes still to be taught by teachers agreed by the local Bishop Discriminations must be avoided Right to choose to attend or not The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

5. Culture, tradition and identity in public education (2001-). Berlusconi’s government Italian state school is a Catholic school Minorities are not welcome Religious activism of the “Lega Nord” Visits of Bishops are encouraged Crucifix is reintroduced No alternative is granted for those who do not attend Catholic classes Those who attend Catholic classes likely to get more credits The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

Inherent ambiguity (a secular state with a Catholic preference) Present ambiguity public service = state schools + private schools? principles (Christian Italy?) competence (State? Local councils? Political parties?) rights and obligations (religious classes; crucifix) The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

The Lautsi case (blaming Europe for Italian deficiencies?) Justice Bratsa, 30 Juin 2010: “Is the display of the crucifix in Italian classes compulsory?” The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

The Lautsi case (blaming Europe for Italian deficiencies?) Nicola Lettieri for the Italian govmt, 30 Juin 2010: “This is not clear” The Italian ambiguities on religion at school

Thank you