What Are Riots? Italian Sociology Weighs In on Milan's October 2026 Unrest

On 17 October 2026, clashes erupted during the "Italia In Piazza" protest in Milan, prompting Il Post to investigate why there is no specific Italian term for "riot." The participants, primarily young male minors, engaged in uncoordinated actions, such as throwing firecrackers and looting. Sociologist Katia Pilati pointed out that the lack of recognized representatives complicates mediation and heightens violence, contrasting with organized demonstrations. Donatella della Porta characterized the individuals as inexperienced, indicating that their violence stemmed from emotion rather than strategy. Organizers utilized social media to convene in small groups. Della Porta also connected the unrest to the violent French student protests that started in early October 2026, which resulted in hundreds of injuries. Both experts criticized the Italian media's portrayal of the situation as "guerrilla warfare," suggesting an organization that justifies repression.