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Sexuality education in Italy
SHAPE classifies the sexuality education framework in Italy as restricted. This describes the national policy framework, not how every school delivers it.
Restricted framework
- National framework: There is no mandatory national sexuality-education curriculum. Provision depends on regional, municipal or individual-school initiatives.
- Law No. 104/2026 (in force since 7 July 2026): extracurricular school activities on affectivity and sexuality in middle and secondary schools require prior written parental consent (or the student's own consent if of age), with at least 7 days' notice and an alternative activity for students who do not take part. External providers are barred from such activities in nursery and primary schools. Curricular lessons are not covered.
- Interpretation: The status summarizes the verified policy framework; it does not guarantee uniform classroom delivery.
[Sources: https://www.unesco.org/gem-report/en/peer ; https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/comprehensive-sexuality-education ; https://www.bzga-whocc.de/fileadmin/user_upload/Dokumente/BZgA_IPPFEN_ComprehensiveStudyReport_Online.pdf ; https://www.normattiva.it/eli/id/2026/06/22/26G00121/ORIGINAL ; https://www.newsistruzione.it/2026/07/07/educazione-sessuo-affettiva-consenso-informato-in-vigore/amp]
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Based on public, cited sources and SHAPE's review. Rules and prices change, so please confirm with the national authority or a professional. Found an error? Tell us.