Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made headlines last week when she blocked the EU job nomination package, including abstaining from voting for Ursula von der Leyen as European Commission president. Meloni argued that the deal was undemocratic as it did not take into account the people’s vote. This move raised questions in Brussels and Rome about Italy possibly being isolated, with some speculating that it was a way for Meloni to buy more time.
The goal of the top EU job appointments is to acknowledge the message that has come out of the polls, according to Tommaso Foti, the lower house group leader of Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party. Meloni has always stood for a government elected by the people rather than a technocratic one. The “Italy and Italians first” principle is at the core of her government’s mission. The shift to the right in Europe, as reflected by voter preferences, is something that the Brothers of Italy want Brussels to recognize.
Enzo Moavero Milanesi, former EU affairs minister, believes that Italy won’t risk being isolated in the EU. However, the Italian government under Meloni wants to assert itself more prominently on the European stage. The upcoming French elections will also play a role in determining the power balances in Brussels. Analysts predict that right-wing parties in national governments may have a stronger presence in EU institutions as well.
Meloni’s actions are seen as part of a political strategy to assert Italy’s interests within the EU. Milanesi emphasizes that the way EU institutions are elected is different from national elections. Meloni’s dual roles as Italian PM and President of the ECR group will influence the strategy she adopts in top EU job appointments. The Italian government’s choices in Europe will be influenced by various factors, including the outcome of the French elections.
One of Meloni’s main objectives is to secure a top commission post for Italy, as without it, she won’t be able to demonstrate to Italian voters that Rome’s voice is being heard in Europe. Despite the disappointment following the EU vote, Meloni is focused on achieving this goal. As the political landscape in Europe continues to evolve, Meloni and other right-wing leaders, such as Marine Le Pen of France’s National Rally, may need to find a way to coexist and assert their influence in Brussels. Ultimately, the Italian government’s actions in Europe will be shaped by a combination of political considerations and strategic calculations.
