Italian Coalition Reaches Agreement on Major Voting System Changes

Italy's governing coalition has reached a deal to completely restructure the country's electoral system ahead of 2027 elections. Opposition parties claim the changes are specifically designed to help Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni maintain power.

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.