The Department of Penitentiary Services denies Law 104 permits to civil union couples. ARCIGAY SAYS: "IT'S INSTITUTIONAL DISCRIMINATION."“
Gabriele Piazzoni: "Using formal loopholes to deny rights is unacceptable. We demand immediate intervention from Minister Nordio."“
Bologna, November 7, 2025 Arcigay expresses deep concern over the circular from the Department of Penitentiary Administration (DAP), which, according to press reports, dated October 7, 2025, excluded civil unions from the right to leave to care for family members provided for by Law 104/1992. The circular, signed by the DAP's General Directorate of Personnel, argues that the law on civil unions does not create a "relationship of affinity" between the parties in the union and the partner's relatives, thus denying civil union workers paid leave to care for their spouse or family members with severe disabilities.
“"We are shocked to learn that the Department of Penitentiary Administration (DAP) is using formal loopholes to deny fundamental rights to employees in civil unions," said Gabriele Piazzoni, general secretary of Arcigay. He continued: "This decision is discriminatory and blatantly contradicts the constitutional principles of equality. While the INPS, as early as 2022, clarified the extension of benefits to civil unions, the Department of Penitentiary Administration (DAP) is choosing a restrictive interpretation that creates first-class and second-class citizens. Public administration should be a guarantor of equality, not an amplifier of discrimination," Piazzoni continued. "We call on Minister of Justice Nordio to intervene immediately to restore legality and ensure that no worker is discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or the form of their romantic union.".
