The government of Giorgia Meloni officially became the longest-serving administration since the establishment of the Italian Republic 80 years ago, surpassing the previous record held by Silvio Berlusconi. Meloni's government has been in power for 1,413 days, one day longer than Berlusconi's collective time in office across multiple governments. Since the end of World War II, Italy has had 68 governments, averaging around 13 months in office.
On Friday, Meloni and her far-right Brothers of Italy (Fdl) party are celebrating this milestone with an event in Bari, Puglia, where supporters will be transported by 80 coaches. Meloni is expected to address the gathering, and Deputy Prime Ministers Matteo Salvini and Antonio Tajani will participate via video link. This event also serves as a campaign opportunity for the upcoming 2027 election.
The Meloni government claims to have created one million new jobs during its tenure, with unemployment rates below 6% and a €21 billion ($24 billion) reduction in personal income taxes. Additionally, the government reports a significant decrease in migrant arrivals and asserts that Italy's global influence has increased.
However, critics argue that despite these statistics, Italy continues to face persistent issues such as weak productivity, demographic decline, and inefficiencies in healthcare, education, and public administration. Maurizio Landini, head of the CGIL trade union, highlighted concerns over stagnant wages, rising fuel costs, job insecurity, and a deteriorating healthcare system.
Opposition groups are also organizing a gathering in Bari, accusing Meloni's government of fostering a "war and weapons economy" and a "police state," while some believe she has moderated her stance since her election campaign. Retired army general Roberto Vannacci, known for his hard-line views on immigration and national identity, is emerging as a potential challenger, with polls indicating his party has surpassed both the anti-immigrant League and Forza Italia, which are part of Meloni's ruling coalition.