Italy’s governing coalition has reached an agreement to completely restructure the nation’s voting system, according to two sources who spoke Thursday. Opposition groups are calling the changes a calculated attempt to ensure Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni remains in office following the 2027 elections.
The current electoral framework combines two methods: the majority of legislators in both chambers are selected through proportional representation using party lists, while 36% win their seats through winner-take-all district contests.
The new proposal from the conservative alliance — comprising Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party, the League, and Forza Italia — would eliminate the district-based voting entirely and establish a purely proportional system. Additionally, any coalition securing more than 40% of votes would automatically receive a governing majority.
Stefano Benigni, deputy leader of Forza Italia, defended the changes, stating: “The centre-right is working on an electoral law that will bring stability to the country, clearly reflect the citizens’ vote and ensure that Italy has a strong and credible government.”
During the 2022 election cycle, the primary opposition groups — the Democratic Party and Five Star Movement — failed to create a unified alliance. This division allowed Meloni’s conservative coalition to dominate by capturing most winner-take-all districts.
However, a unified left-wing coalition appears to be forming for the next election. While current polling indicates they would receive fewer total votes than the right-wing parties, they could potentially prevent the ruling coalition from achieving a working majority by winning more seats in Italy’s economically disadvantaged southern regions.
Polling analyst Fabrizio Masia explained the strategy: “The idea behind this proposal is simple: whoever gets the most votes should govern, and right now the centre-right is slightly ahead. Under the current electoral law, that may not happen.”
The proposed changes would require legislative approval and include provisions for a second-round vote that would only occur if coalitions receive between 35 and 40% of the initial vote, sources indicated.
Italian governing parties have historically attempted to modify electoral rules while holding office, typically seeking advantages in upcoming elections.
The Democratic Party issued a statement condemning the effort: “Their priority today, their only concern, is to protect themselves by changing the electoral law in an unacceptable manner.”
These developments occur during an intense campaign period leading up to a March referendum on judicial reforms, which political observers consider a significant indicator of Meloni’s strength before the next national election.
