Italy’s Democratic Institutions Face Scrutiny Amid Electoral Reform and Civil Rights Tensions
As the 2027 general election approaches, accusations of institutional pressure mount over proposed electoral changes, abortion access, and migration policy.
Italy’s democratic framework is under increasing scrutiny as the country approaches the 2027 general election, with France 24’s Europe Rendezvous programme examining the pressures exerted on state institutions by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s coalition. The broadcast, aired on 24 July 2026, outlines allegations that the government is seeking to consolidate influence over the judiciary, the media, and the electoral system. Meloni, who leads a coalition comprising conservatives and the far-right Brothers of Italy party, has faced criticism for steering the nation in what opponents describe as an increasingly illiberal direction.
Central to the debate is a proposed electoral reform designed to introduce a majority bonus, which would award additional parliamentary seats to the winning coalition. The measure has already passed the lower house but remains pending Senate approval. Sandro Gozi, an Italian Member of the European Parliament elected on the Renew Europe ticket, argues that this reform, alongside political pressure on the media and restrictions on civil rights, signals a departure from established democratic norms.
Social policy remains a flashpoint, particularly regarding reproductive rights. Although abortion is legal in Italy, access is severely restricted in many regions due to the widespread use of the conscientious objection clause by medical professionals. Ylenja Lucaselli, a member of parliament from Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party, addressed these disparities during the programme, highlighting the practical barriers women face in accessing the procedure despite its legal status.
Migration policy continues to define the government’s domestic and international stance. Meloni’s tough approach on immigration contributed to her victory in the 2022 general election, and her administration has since opened a controversial migrant processing centre in Albania. However, economic pressures have also shaped policy; responding to employer demands regarding labour shortages, the government has approved an additional 500,000 work visas for the 2026–2028 period.
The social impact of these policies was underscored in July when a Moroccan-born man died in Bologna after being restrained by police. The incident sparked protests and renewed debate over policing practices and the rights of migrants. Meanwhile, on the geopolitical stage, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, a longtime ally of the late Silvio Berlusconi, discussed significant challenges facing the government, including emerging strains in the relationship between Prime Minister Meloni and US President Donald Trump.
