Domestic Policy
Violence Against Women: On the day dedicated to combating violence against women, legislative progress on femicide and sexual consent remains partial: the Chamber of Deputies unanimously approved the new crime of femicide, while the Senate postponed the rape bill for further hearings requested by the centre-right. President Sergio Mattarella reminded that “women’s freedom is an achievement to be defended every day,” while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the approval as “an important signal of political cohesion against the barbarity of violence.”
Electoral Law: Following regional elections, the issue of electoral reform has resurfaced. The governing majority is considering a proportional system with a potential majority bonus and possible revision of single-member constituencies. The opposition has expressed reservations, deeming it non-priority to amend the Rosatellum at this stage. For now, these remain preliminary assessments: no formal proposal has been submitted, and discussions remain in an initial phase.
Foreign Policy
Ukraine Conflict: Donald Trump and the White House express strong optimism regarding the imminent possibility of a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, as American envoys continue negotiations with Moscow and Kyiv. However, unresolved issues remain, particularly on points where Russia refuses to concede, as indicated by Foreign Minister Lavrov. Zelensky is reportedly ready to meet Trump to finalise the agreement, while Washington follows developments through a delegation led by Secretary of the Army Driscoll. Meanwhile, military actions and Russian bombings, including on Ukraine’s capital, continue.
Rights: The European Court of Justice has ruled that same-sex marriages celebrated in one Member State must be recognised throughout the EU, even in countries that do not permit same-sex marriage. The ruling, stemming from the case of two Polish citizens married in Germany, is based on the principle of freedom of movement and the right to maintain family life upon returning to one’s home country. While not mandating changes to national legislation, the Court requires equivalent forms of recognition, leaving Member States discretion over implementation.
Economy and Finance
Budget: The European Commission has deemed Italy’s budget “compliant” with EU recommendations, thanks to contained spending increases within the limits of the new Stability Pact, thereby suspending the excessive deficit procedure. Brussels acknowledges Italy’s efforts but notes weak growth and the need to continue with reforms and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, while maintaining high vigilance over debt and financial vulnerabilities. “Our assessment is that the implementation of the medium-term structural plan is on the right track,” said European Commissioner for Economic Affairs Valdis Dombrovskis, speaking to La Repubblica. The Italian government welcomes the approval, while acknowledging ongoing economic challenges.
Automotive: Production of the new hybrid Fiat 500 has begun at Mirafiori, where Stellantis aims to manufacture 6,500 units with 400 new hires. CEO Filosa and John Elkann reaffirmed Italy’s central role within the group, calling for a more favourable European regulatory framework to enhance industrial competitiveness. The government, through Minister for Enterprises Adolfo Urso, views the project as a sign of revitalisation, despite the complex European context. Meanwhile, the EU car market shows partial recovery, and Stellantis improves its registration figures.