Uncertain times: Italy makes hard-right turn

Italy is expected by many observers to form its most right-wing government since World World II after far-right politician Giorgia Meloni won the country’s recent election, making her the country's first female prime minister.

Meloni bested Enrico Letta from the country’s centre left. Her electoral victory will give control of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies to her right-wing alliance comprised of Matteo Salvini's far-right League and former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia.

Italy’s hard-right turn has created massive shockwaves across Europe and the world. Being a founding member of the European Union (EU), Italy’s election result could trigger a wider rightward shift in the region and a possible regression of more labour rights, especially those of migrant workers. 

Meloni is expected to revamp Italy’s immigration policy starting with stricter border controls, blocking of boat landings and the establishment of EU-managed centres outside the bloc to evaluate asylum applications.

The country’s economy is also closely being monitored by many observers. Italy is the second most indebted country in the region. According to many experts, the country’s economy is most likely to head towards a recession. Amidst Meloni’s populist economic promises during the campaign season, confidence from the region on how her administration will response to the crisis remains low. 

Photo: AP