Domestic Policy
Justice Referendum: The path toward the constitutional referendum on the separation of judicial careers has entered a decisive phase, with the imminent signature of the President of the Republic on the decree setting the vote for 22–23 March. Committees opposing the reform have filed a lawsuit with the Administrative Court (Tar) against the date chosen by the government—an initiative unlikely to alter the referendum’s course but likely to trigger judicial and political confrontation with the “yes” camp. In the background, mobilisation by committees and political parties is intensifying, with campaigns already underway and divergent positions emerging within both the opposition and the governing majority.
Transport: The taxi drivers’ strike saw widespread participation and caused significant disruption for users, but also revealed weakening political support for the sector—particularly within the centre-right governing coalition. In Forza Italia, divisions are emerging between those defending the public role of taxis and those viewing the protest as outdated and opposed to competition. Demonstrations were also marked by episodes of tension, while trade unions have announced further mobilisations against illegal operations and competition from international platforms. A meeting is expected today at the Ministry of Transport, while opposition parties are calling for comprehensive reform of the sector.
Foreign Policy
Iran: According to Iran International, at least 12,000 demonstrators have reportedly been killed in Iran during the uprisings, mostly young people under 30—a toll far exceeding the approximately 2,000 deaths officially acknowledged by Tehran. The crackdown has drawn strong international condemnation and prompted the European Union to announce new sanctions. The United States has urged its citizens to leave the country, and Donald Trump has encouraged Iranians to continue protesting, speaking of “help on the way” without providing further details.
Venezuela: Alberto Trentini and Mario Burlò, detained in Venezuela for 14 months, have returned to Italy, welcomed at Ciampino Airport by family members and Italian authorities, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. The two recounted months of detention under conditions of severe isolation and without legal guarantees, describing their experience as a serious violation of rights. Tajani announced that they will be heard by prosecutors in the coming days and reiterated the government’s commitment to securing the release of other Italians still detained in the country.
Economy and Finance
Federal Reserve: Major global central banks have expressed full solidarity with Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, defending the independence of monetary policy in the face of an investigation launched by the Trump administration. The statement, signed among others by the European Central Bank, the Bank of England, and the Bank for International Settlements, underscores that central bank autonomy is a cornerstone of economic and financial stability. In the United States, financial institutions such as JP Morgan and Bank of New York Mellon have criticised pressure on the Fed, calling it harmful to credibility and economic prospects.
Economic Outlook: The latest analyses by Istat paint a picture of weak growth for Italy, below the eurozone average, with GDP rising by just 0.1% in the final quarter of 2025 and widespread signs of economic slowdown. Industrial production, foreign trade, and employment show subdued dynamics, while inflation remains moderate but with rising prices for essential consumer goods. In contrast, the pharmaceutical sector is performing strongly, though it fails to offset difficulties in sectors such as automotive. On the financial front, bank lending to households and businesses is increasing, but prospects remain cautious due to geopolitical tensions and international uncertainties.