In 2025, personal security remains a major concern for Italian citizens even if the figures show positive developments, especially in comparison with countries such as France, the sad leader in this ranking. The recent evolution of crime statistics in Italy, compared to that of neighbouring countries such as France, Germany and Spain, highlights significant trends.
Evolution of delinquency in Italy in 2024
According to an analysis published by Il Messaggero in September 2024, Milan maintains the sad record for the city with the highest crime index in Italy. Ilmessaggero.it
Without much novelty, this situation highlights a concentration of criminal acts in major Italian cities. However, previous analysis indicates that, despite popular belief, the crime rate in Italy has actually been falling for several years. Umvie.com
This trend suggests a general improvement in security and is to be compared with neighboring countries such as France where this delinquency and crime seem to have become worrying.
Italy ranked 6th in Europe
In 2024, Italy recorded a crime index of 47.32, placing it 6th among European countries in terms of crime. This ranking is based on the perceptions of visitors to the Numbeo site over the last three years. en.numbeo.com. Compared to other European countries, France has a crime index of 55.26, placing it at the top of the European rankings. Belgium and Sweden follow with indices of 49.25 and 48.36 respectively. Italy, with an index of 47.32, is just after these countries, indicating a moderate crime situation compared to its European neighbors.
As a result, although some Italian cities, especially Milan, have worrying crime rates, national trends show an improvement in the security situation even though Italy remains facing security challenges, similar to those of many other European countries.
An improvement since 2010
Since the beginning of the 2010s, Italy has seen a significant decrease in crime. For example, between 2017 and 2019, the overall crime rate fell by 10%. neuralword.com
Several factors explain this trend:
- Strengthening law enforcement : The Italian authorities have intensified their efforts to combat crime, in particular by increasing the number of police officers and by improving the training of officers.
- Fight against organized crime : Targeted operations against criminal organizations, such as the Mafia, have weakened their influence and reduced their illegal activities.
- Social programs : The establishment of crime prevention programmes, including through education and social integration, has contributed to a reduction in the number of crimes.
These combined measures have allowed Italy to become one of the safest countries in Europe, with a relatively low homicide rate compared to its neighbours.
The Meloni effect
Since coming to power in October 2022, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has implemented several measures aimed at strengthening security in Italy. These initiatives focus primarily on tightening migration policies and strengthening domestic security laws.
Restrictive migration policies
The Meloni government has taken a strict approach to immigration, considering a reduction in migration flows as essential to improve national security. Among the notable measures, the Piantedosi decree, adopted in 2023 and recently tightened, aims to facilitate the confiscation of humanitarian vessels operating in the Mediterranean. This legislation has led organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières to suspend their sea rescue operations, denouncing a legal framework that has become “untenable”. bvoltaire.fr
According to the Italian Ministry of the Interior, these policies would have had a significant deterrent effect, with a 65% drop in the number of migrants arriving in Italy compared to 2023. In concrete terms, around 41,000 migrants have landed on the peninsula since the beginning of the year, compared to around 114,000 in the first eight months of 2023. Europe1.fr
Strengthening security laws
At the same time, the government has introduced measures to toughen penalties for unauthorized gatherings and to create new crimes, especially in response to protests. These initiatives also include strengthening the protection of law enforcement agencies. Lefigaro.fr
These measures elicited mixed reactions within Italian society. While some believe that they contribute to improved security, others criticize them for their impact on civil rights and individual freedoms. For example, thousands of people recently demonstrated against a bill deemed “fascist”, which aims to criminalize certain forms of political and social dissent. RFI.fr
These policies put in place by Giorgia Meloni's government have had a significant impact on security management in Italy, however these initiatives remain subject to debate as to their effectiveness and their implications for fundamental rights.
Comparison with France, Germany and Spain
In France, the Departmental Statistical Service for Internal Security (SSMSI) published, on January 30, 2025, a first photograph of insecurity and delinquency for the year 2024. Among the notable increases are those related to drug trafficking and use, but also those related to sexual violence. vie-publique.fr
Although accurate data for Germany and Spain is not available in the sources consulted, it is essential to note that each European country faces unique security challenges. Socio-economic contexts, public policies, and urban dynamics influence crime rates and perceptions of safety.
Everyday solutions to improve personal safety
Even though insecurity is tending to improve in Italy, it is nevertheless crucial for citizens to take proactive measures to ensure their daily safety. Here are some recommendations:
- Increased vigilance : Remain attentive to your environment, especially in high-traffic areas or areas known for their insecurity.
- Trip planning : Choose well-lit and busy routes, especially when traveling at night.
- Self-defense training : Participating in self-defense classes can build self-confidence and offer useful techniques in the event of a confrontation.
- Use of security technology : Personal safety mobile applications can provide real-time alerts and tracking features.
- Discreet protective equipment : Wearing clothing that provides extra protection without attracting attention can be an effective preventative measure.
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Conclusion
Personal security in Italy in 2025 remains a major issue, influenced by various local and international dynamics. While the statistics show varied trends, it is essential for each individual to take proactive steps to protect themselves. The adoption of innovative solutions, such as the V007 jacket from VEST PARIS, offers a modern approach to reconciling safety and style on a daily basis.
