Premier Giorgia Meloni’s conservative administration on Thursday became Italy’s longest-serving uninterrupted government since World War II, lasting 1,413 days. This surpasses the previous record set by Silvio Berlusconi's government between 2001 and 2005.
None of Italy’s 68 governments in its 80-year history as a republic has completed a five-year term without interruption. Berlusconi came close but resigned briefly in 2005 amid a government crisis before forming a new Cabinet.
Meloni, Italy's first female prime minister, took office in October 2022. Her government, led by a party with neo-fascist roots, initially raised concerns among European allies and financial markets. However, Meloni has largely pursued a pragmatic governing style, maintaining strong support for Ukraine, cooperating within European institutions, and adhering to fiscal discipline.
Governing Strategy and Impact
Meloni's administration has managed to avoid the crises and defections that have frequently destabilized past Italian governments. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto described Meloni as determined, hardworking, precise, and meticulous, sacrificing her personal life for institutional service, which he believes has earned her international credibility.
Supporters attribute achievements such as tighter public finances, over 1 million additional jobs, unemployment below 6%, new lows in youth unemployment, and a significant decline in migrant arrivals to the government's policies. Meloni stated that the government's strategy has focused on supporting businesses and job creators, resulting in a record high in employment.
However, critics argue that many of Italy's persistent issues remain unaddressed. These include weak productivity, demographic decline, and inefficiencies in healthcare, education, and public administration. Political analyst Lorenzo Pregliasco noted that while the government has been stable, it has not achieved substantial structural reforms.
Opposition leaders contend that the government has not found concrete ways to stimulate long-term economic growth beyond controlling public debt and deficits. Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte criticized the government, stating that while it celebrates, Italians are not experiencing economic improvement.
Shifting Political Landscape
Meloni's transition from a nationalist outsider to a more establishment figure has reassured investors and European leaders, with some suggesting Italy has regained its footing in Europe. Her ability to balance nationalist stances on issues like migration and identity with tactical governance has been noted as a factor in the mainstreaming of Europe's hard-right parties.
While Meloni's supporters view her evolution as proof that nationalist conservatives can govern responsibly within democratic institutions and Western alliances, some see her moderation as a potential weakness. This shift has created space for more conservative challengers.
Retired army General Roberto Vannacci, known for his hard-line positions, has emerged as a prominent voice on the far-right. Vannacci has criticized Meloni for abandoning combative campaign promises to project an institution-friendly image, potentially siphoning off voters who feel she has moderated too much in her pursuit of stability.
As Italy approaches the next election, constitutionally due by the end of 2027, the focus is on whether voters believe Meloni's government has delivered enough to warrant another term.