Giorgia Meloni Tasked with Forming New Italian Government

On September 27, 2022, Italian President Sergio Mattarella assigned the task of forming a new government to Giorgia Meloni. This move followed her party’s recent electoral victory, positioning her to potentially become Italy’s first female Prime Minister.

Background

Giorgia Meloni is a member of the Brothers of Italy (Fratelli d’Italia), a right-wing political party she co-founded in 2012. The party, which holds nationalist and conservative views, gained significant traction in recent years, culminating in a leading position in the 2022 general elections.

The 2022 General Elections

The elections were held on September 25, 2022. The center-right coalition, of which the Brothers of Italy was the leading party, secured a clear majority in both houses of Parliament. This coalition also included Forza Italia, led by former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, and the League, led by Matteo Salvini.

Presidential Mandate

Following the election results, President Mattarella was required to consult with party leaders to determine who would have the majority support of the new Parliament. On September 27, Mattarella officially asked Giorgia Meloni to form a government. This was a significant moment not only for Meloni and her party but also for Italian politics, marking a shift towards a right-wing government.

Meloni’s Historic Position

Should she successfully form a government, Giorgia Meloni will make history as Italy’s first female Prime Minister. Her leadership would reflect both a milestone for gender representation and a pivotal moment in Italian politics, given the country’s traditionally centrist or left-leaning recent governments.

Broader Implications

Meloni’s potential rise to Prime Minister reflects Europe’s broader political trends, where right-wing parties have gained ground amidst debates over immigration, national identity, and economic challenges. International observers and Italian citizens alike await how her government plan will address pressing domestic and international issues.

The developments in Italy contribute to an evolving political landscape in Europe, as countries navigate complex social and economic issues lining the post-pandemic world.