Italy’s parliament has approved a significant electoral reform, triggering protests from opposition parties who argue that the changes could unduly favor the ruling coalition in upcoming elections. The reform, backed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, introduces a proportional electoral system with bonus seats for coalitions that secure at least 42% of the vote, a move the government claims will enhance political stability.
The legislation was passed in a secret ballot in the lower house, with 227 lawmakers supporting it and 164 opposing. Opposition MPs have expressed outrage, questioning the fairness of the reform and displaying signs in protest. They plan to challenge the law in Italy’s Constitutional Court, objecting to provisions requiring parties to present their government programs and prime minister candidates ahead of elections.
Prime Minister Meloni hailed the vote as a testament to her coalition’s unity, which includes Brothers of Italy, Forza Italia, and the League. Despite facing internal tensions and pressure from political rivals, the coalition has maintained its parliamentary majority. Meloni’s government argues that the reform will bring greater stability to Italy’s political landscape.
However, critics like Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein assert that the reform is strategically designed to secure the ruling coalition’s advantage in the next election, which is set to occur by October 2027. Schlein contends that the bonus seats could skew voter representation and alter the political balance in favor of the current government.
Recent polling during the debate suggests that a united opposition could potentially meet the 42% threshold required to benefit from the new system. Nonetheless, significant divisions and disagreements over cooperation remain challenges for the opposition as Italy gears up for its next general election.