Italy is currently facing a national referendum on proposed reforms to its judicial system, put forward by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government.
Prime Minister Meloni and her supporters argue these changes are vital to ensure greater impartiality within the judiciary, specifically by addressing perceived "left-wing political factions," and to enhance the overall efficiency of the country's justice system. The campaign has included appeals to a broad range of voters, with government messaging linking judicial actions to public safety concerns, such as the deportation of individuals convicted of serious crimes.
In contrast, opponents, including elements within the ruling coalition, express concern that the reforms could weaken the independence of prosecutors and potentially allow for indirect government influence over investigations, thereby undermining rather than improving judicial impartiality. Questions have also been raised about the actual impact on system efficiency. The outcome of the referendum is widely considered a significant political test for the current administration.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/22/italy-referendum-judiciary-overhaul-giorgia-meloni
