Meloni's electoral reform moves closer to approval as general election looms

The Italian government is pressing ahead with a long-planned overhaul of the country's electoral system, which is on track to be approved in the coming months, according to a report from The Local Italy. The reform, which has been under discussion since Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took office, aims to change the way seats are allocated in the bicameral parliament and could take effect before the next general election.

Foreign press coverage notes that Italy's voting system has been changed repeatedly over the past three decades, contributing to an environment of political instability that has often frustrated European Union partners. The current system is a mixed model combining proportional representation with a majority bonus for the largest coalition, but critics argue it has failed to produce durable governments. The proposed overhaul, whose specific provisions remain under negotiation, is expected to shift the balance of power toward larger parties or coalitions, potentially making governing coalitions more stable.

The reform comes as Italy prepares for a general election that must be held by early 2028 but could come sooner if the current coalition fractures. Foreign observers watching Italian politics have noted that any change to the electoral law will be closely scrutinised by Brussels, as Italy's government stability is a key factor in the credibility of its economic and fiscal commitments under EU rules. The European Commission has repeatedly called for structural reforms to improve Italy's long-term growth prospects, and electoral reform is seen as part of that broader agenda.