Domestic Policy
Justice: Television statements by Nicola Gratteri, Prosecutor of the Republic of Naples, regarding the vote in the Justice referendum have triggered strong reactions: the right-wing accuses him of associating the “Yes” vote with the interests of the mafia and other forms of illegality. Minister Salvini, Undersecretary Sisto, and other parliamentarians demand his apologies or question his suitability. Gratteri rejects the accusations, while 51 judges supporting the “Yes” criticize his remarks. Twenty-five members of the Superior Council of the Judiciary, however, defend the Prosecutor, urging against instrumentalizing the matter and calling for restraint and moderation in the debate.
CasaPound: Following the Bari court’s ruling convicting 12 CasaPound activists for an assault, Forza Italia has called for the eviction of the movement’s premises, describing them as illegal occupations, while maintaining a guarantee-oriented stance pending a final ruling on its dissolution. In Genoa, the presentation of a law on remigration, promoted by CasaPound and other far-right groups, sparked protests by ANPI, the Democratic Party, the Five Star Movement, and trade unions. The opposition insists the government intervene, denouncing its inaction.
Foreign Policy
Munich: The 62nd Munich Security Conference highlighted the collapse of the rules-based global order and the need for a more autonomous and stronger Europe, with enhanced military capabilities and greater responsibility in global security. Leaders acknowledged tensions between Europe and the United States, underlining the fragility of the Atlantic alliance and the importance of Europe emancipating itself from American dependence. The war in Ukraine was also discussed, with Macron reaffirming Europe’s role in resolving the conflict, as signs grow of a new European responsibility on the international stage.
Addis Ababa: Giorgia Meloni attended the Italy-Africa summit in Ethiopia—the first held on African soil—to strengthen partnerships with African nations. Inspired by the Mattei Plan, the strategy aims for equitable and respectful cooperation and seeks to extend the plan to new African countries, promoting shared development projects. Meloni emphasized the importance of building a relationship based on trust, moving away from paternalistic approaches, and addressing issues such as migration and debt. Key projects include the Abydos II photovoltaic plant in Egypt, the Elmed submarine cable between Italy and Tunisia, and the Lobito Corridor. A fund has also been established at the African Development Bank for renewables and sustainable infrastructure.
Economy and Finance
Transportation: Following the failure of negotiations at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Minister Salvini decided to impose compulsory service to prevent strikes scheduled for 16 February and 7 March in the air transport sector, postponing Ita Airways and EasyJet strikes to 26 February. Unions confirmed their protests despite the request to reschedule them away from the Winter Olympics. Salvini stated he would invoke compulsory service to safeguard Italy’s image, in accordance with the law on strikes in essential public services, and warned of sanctions for those violating the order.
Venezuela: Approximately one month after Nicolás Maduro’s fall and Delcy Rodríguez’s assumption of power in Venezuela, signs of recovery are emerging in the oil sector. Five major companies—including British Petroleum, Chevron, Eni, Repsol, and Shell—have received licenses to operate in the country, issued by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control. This decision allows the resumption of oil exports, vital for Venezuela’s economy, which had previously been hampered by the lack of individual licenses. The recovery marks a significant step in the post-Maduro revival effort, with positive effects on financial markets, as evidenced by Chevron’s rising stock prices.