Italy: Political Developments and Data in 2023

Abstract

The year 2023 was a year of consolidation for the government of Giorgia Meloni (Fratelli d'Italia). After the turbulent 2022, the 2023 electoral landscape in Italy saw minimal changes at the national level. However, while there were no national elections, regional elections were held in five regions, bearing witness to shifts and stances within both the majority and the opposition. At the national party level, leadership changes occurred both in the center-left and in the center-right. On the one hand, following primary elections, Elly Schlein became the first woman to lead the Partito Democratico. On the other, Forza Italia faced uncertainty following the passing of Silvio Berlusconi, with Antonio Tajani appointed interim leader. Other than that, the political landscape in Italy remained relatively stable in 2023, with Giorgia Meloni seeking to consolidate her leadership within the coalition and her credibility as head of government, while the opposition strove to reorganize.