Italy’s Senate has approved legislation recognising the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy, following earlier approval by the Chamber of Deputies. The measure was adopted unanimously in the presence of Romania’s Ambassador to Italy, Gabriela Dancău, and His Grace Bishop Siluan of Italy.
“The unanimous vote cast by the members of the Senate represents not only the conclusion of a complex legislative process but also the expression of a democratic maturity that recognises the substantial contribution of the Romanian Orthodox community to the social, cultural and spiritual life of contemporary Italy,” Ambassador Gabriela Dancău said.
“For me, as Ambassador, this was also a deeply moving moment, because every contribution made by representatives of the political parties in the Senate spoke in highly appreciative terms about the special relationship between our two countries, the strength of our bilateral partnership, and the essential role of the Romanian community in Italy.”
“I regard this moment not only as a diplomatic achievement, but also as a reaffirmation of a historic friendship founded on trust, shared values and a common responsibility for the European future that we are building together,” she added.
What the Recognition Means
The recognition grants the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy several new rights, including:
- Romanian Orthodox clergy will have access to hospitals, care institutions and prisons.
- Romanian Orthodox priests who hold Italian citizenship will be able to solemnise marriages recognised by the Italian state.
- The Diocese will be permitted to organise voluntary Orthodox religious education outside the state school timetable.
- The Diocese will receive legal recognition for its charitable and social activities and will become eligible for public funding, including through Italy’s tax allocation mechanism.
Italian Senators Welcome the Decision
During the parliamentary debate, senators from across the political spectrum praised the Romanian community’s contribution to Italian society.
Paolo Tosato (Lega–Salvini Premier) recalled the shared history, roots, and values that link Orthodoxy with Europe and expressed the hope that the Senate would vote unanimously.
Daniella Ternullo (Forza Italia–PPE) noted that Romanians constitute “the largest Orthodox community in Italy” as well as the country’s largest foreign resident community.
Felicia Gaudiano (Five Star Movement) said religious freedom “is not a concession granted by politics” but a constitutional right, highlighting the role of religious communities in supporting families, promoting solidarity and assisting vulnerable people.
Marco Dreosto (Lega per Salvini Premier–PSd’Az) paid tribute to the Romanian Orthodox Monastery of the Nativity of the Mother of God in Gradisca di Spilimbergo, describing it as a concrete example of faith, hospitality, dialogue and integration.
Dario Parrini (Democratic Party) said he wished to speak “as an act of respect” towards the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy, offering greetings both personally and on behalf of his parliamentary group, before confirming his parliamentary group’s support for the measure.
Lucio Malan (Brothers of Italy) reflected on the history of the Romanian Orthodox Church, recalling its ancient origins, its contribution to the formation of the Romanian nation, the suffering it endured under communist rule and its revival after 1989.
The legislation now awaits promulgation by the President of the Italian Republic.
Photo: Facebook / Gabriela Dancău
