Italy’s parliament has approved a significant electoral reform, proposed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, sparking strong objections from opposition parties. The new legislation introduces a proportional electoral system with bonus seats for the coalition that garners the most votes and surpasses a 42% threshold. While the government claims the reform is designed to enhance political stability, critics argue it could disproportionately favor the ruling coalition in the next general election, scheduled by October 2027.
The bill passed in the lower house through a secret ballot, with 227 lawmakers supporting it and 164 opposing. In response, opposition MPs protested the outcome by displaying signs that questioned the fairness of the legislation. Opposition parties have announced plans to challenge the reform in Italy’s Constitutional Court, expressing concern over a provision that requires political parties and coalitions to present their government programs and prime ministerial candidates before elections.
Prime Minister Meloni hailed the parliamentary vote as a testament to the unity within her governing coalition, which includes Brothers of Italy, Forza Italia, and the League. Despite internal tensions and the emergence of political rivals, the coalition has maintained its parliamentary majority. Meloni’s coalition argues that the reform will prevent political deadlock and promote stable governance.
Opposition leaders, including Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein, have criticized the government for altering electoral rules with an eye on the next election. Schlein contends that the reform could shift the political balance by providing additional parliamentary representation to the leading coalition. Recent polls suggest that a unified opposition could reach the 42% threshold, but internal divisions and disagreements over cooperation remain significant hurdles as Italy approaches its next general election.