Navigating Politics: The Fine Line Between Populism and Pragmatism

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has brought a period of unexpected stability to Italy, navigating between global politics and local needs, yet her distinct policies often seem overshadowed.

“I am Giorgia, a woman, a mother, Italian, Christian – and no one can take that from me” – this statement encapsulated Giorgia Meloni’s campaign rhetoric over three years ago.

Leading the Brothers of Italy, a party with post-fascist roots, Meloni initially aligned herself with Europe’s far-right, stirring fears of her potential detachment from the European Union.

Now, Meloni’s foreign policy paints a different picture. She hasn’t mirrored Hungary’s Viktor Orban by blocking EU decisions. Instead, she has cultivated an image of an open, committed European, maintaining strong relations with leaders like EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Journalist and biographer Susanna Turco explains this dichotomy: “There are two Melonis: one who compromises to govern at any cost, and another who claims she wants to revolutionize everything.” According to Turco, Meloni’s adeptness at political theater often makes the Italian public forget her past declarations.

Significantly, Meloni’s government benefits greatly from the EU’s coronavirus recovery fund, a lifeline she cannot afford to sever. Currently, she confidently maintains her position, expressing pride in her administration’s economic handling and Italy’s allure. Yet, concerns such as security and energy prices remain her top priorities.

Turco criticizes Meloni for not having a coherent vision, saying, “She tries to be a mediator between different extremes like Trump and Orban and the EU, between populism and practical politics. But what’s missing is substantive political work. There are no visions, no overarching projects. We can’t even articulate what Meloni’s governmental plans are.”

Meloni’s administration has tightened laws around public demonstrations and increased the powers of the police, military, and intelligence services. Her hard stance on asylum, attempts to manage asylum procedures in Albania, and her actions against civilian sea rescues highlight her approach. Additionally, her government has sought to limit the rights of LGBTQI+ families and block discussions on transsexuality and non-binary issues in primary and middle schools.

Despite the controversies, many Italians appreciate the stability Meloni’s government has introduced, a rarity in Italy’s tumultuous political landscape. With her government likely to complete its term and possibly even secure re-election, Meloni continues to navigate the complex waters of Italian politics.