Domestic Policy
Case Report: Following revelations by “Report” regarding alleged conflicts of interest within the Data Protection Authority, the centre-left has called for the resignation of the Authority’s board before the end of its mandate in 2027. President Pasquale Stanzione has rejected the accusations, calling them unfounded and reaffirming the Authority’s independence. Some members, such as Guido Scorza, have not ruled out resigning for personal reasons, while the centre-right maintains a wait-and-see stance, with Brothers of Italy nonetheless favouring the dissolution of the Authority.
Culture: The Ministry of Culture has dismissed allegations concerning purported cuts to the Cinema Fund, describing circulating reconstructions as “manipulative.” At the heart of the controversy is an email addressed to the Ministry of Economy and Finance proposing a reduction of approximately one-third of the funds, which the Ministry of Culture interpreted as an attempt to redistribute resources without penalising cultural heritage protection. Minister Giuli insists he aims to safeguard funds for conservation, seeking solutions to offset reductions in the film sector. Opposition parties describe this as an attack on the film industry, while the governing majority defends the minister’s actions.
Foreign Policy
Ukraine Conflict: On the third anniversary of the liberation of Kherson, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the difficult military situation on the front. Russian forces reportedly broke through at Pokrovsk, taking advantage of fog, while advances were also recorded near Kupyansk and intense bombardments occurred in the Zaporizhzhia region. Kyiv confirmed withdrawals from some positions in the south. Diplomatically, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio resumed contact after months of silence.
Mattarella in Vienna: During his visit to the photographic exhibition dedicated to Falcone and Borsellino at the UN headquarters in Vienna, President Sergio Mattarella remembered the two magistrates and their contribution to the fight against the mafia. Addressing a packed auditorium, he underscored the importance of international cooperation in combating organised crime and tackling global challenges such as the environment, artificial intelligence, and health. Mattarella defended the central role of the UN, urging efforts to strengthen—not weaken—multilateralism. He also called for reform of the Security Council and revitalisation of disarmament agreements.
Economy and Finance
Budget Bill: Centre-right leaders met at Palazzo Chigi to discuss the Budget Law, debating fiscal measures, rental management, and financial coverage, with limited room for manoeuvre according to Minister Giorgetti. Parties are finalising amendments, aiming to begin committee voting on 3 December and approve the budget bill in the Chamber of Deputies before Christmas. Meanwhile, CGIL and the Democratic Party have proposed measures on minimum wage and fiscal drag, suggesting contributions from large fortunes. At the same time, FIEG has noted the disappearance of funds for the publishing sector in the upcoming budget, stressing the need to protect the industry.
Former Ilva: Talks between the government and trade unions regarding the future of the former Ilva plant continue amid heightened concern. Trade unions complain of the absence of a clear industrial plan, while Palazzo Chigi reaffirms its commitment to maintaining dialogue and further examining technical aspects. Meanwhile, from 15 November to 31 December, the former Ilva will increase the number of workers on layoff from 4,450 to 5,700, rising to 6,000 from January—a measure linked to decarbonisation-related works.