Domestic Policy
Government: There have been some resignations within the majority, also linked to the outcome of the referendum on judicial reform, which was particularly supported by Forza Italia. In the latter, Maurizio Gasparri stepped down as Senate group leader following a replacement request signed by 14 party senators, including Ministers Casellati and Zangrillo; Stefania Craxi was appointed in his place. Paolo Barelli’s position at the Chamber of Deputies is also uncertain. Meanwhile, Giorgia Meloni has taken on the interim role for Tourism following Daniela Santanchè’s resignation, while electoral law reform remains a priority in Parliament.
Constitutional Court: Giovanni Amoroso, President of the Constitutional Court, addressing the highest state authorities, reviewed the Court’s decisions in 2025. He reminded Parliament that appeals to legislate on end-of-life issues have not yet been heard. Following the referendum, he also called for dialogue to mend the path of judicial reforms, deemed necessary to address numerous problems, emphasizing that while the Constitution can be amended, it must be done with caution.
Foreign Policy
Immigration: The European Parliament has approved new rules on returns, introducing “return hubs” in third countries to make expulsions more effective and strengthen border control. The new regulations have been positively received by the Italian government: Giorgia Meloni emphasized that the “return hubs” will make expulsion procedures more effective and enhance border control. According to Nicola Procaccini of Fratelli d’Italia, the Italian approach is now becoming European: the new, stricter and more uniform regulation will also support the projects for centers in Albania, already initiated by Italy. The goal is to make them operational by summer.
Iran: The United States is considering an amphibious attack on Iran’s Kharg Island, a crucial node for Tehran’s oil exports. Washington is deploying specialized troops, including the 82nd Airborne Division and thousands of Marines, suggesting the possibility of an assault supported by bombings. However, the operation would be highly risky due to Iran’s strong military presence and proximity to the coast. Numerous analysts warn that the Iranian leadership, dominated by extremist figures, is unlikely to change course without a ceasefire. Meanwhile, President Trump has postponed attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure until Easter to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Economy and Finance
OECD: The ongoing conflict in Iran is slowing global growth and increasing inflation. The OECD has revised down its forecasts for Italy: GDP is expected to grow by only 0.4% in 2026 and 0.6% in 2027, while inflation will rise to 2.4%. The global context is worsening, with risks of interest rate hikes by the European Central Bank. For Italy, this would mean higher debt servicing costs and reduced budgetary margins. A positive note comes from the rescheduling of EU cohesion funds, which, as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted, has allowed Italy to redirect €7 billion towards interventions supporting businesses, water resources, the energy transition, and social housing. However, consumer confidence is declining.
US Tariffs: The European Parliament has approved two regulations that eliminate most EU tariffs on US industrial and agricultural products, initiating the ratification of the tariff agreement with Washington and marking a truce in the tariff war with Trump. The texts, which include safeguard clauses and a “sunrise clause” to ensure compliance with US commitments, will now be negotiated with member states, while the United States is pushing to eliminate them. The tariff reductions will remain valid until 31 March 2028.