Meloni on Cusp of Record as Italy's Longest-Serving Postwar Government
Giorgia Meloni's government is set to become Italy's longest-serving since WWII, yet analysts debate her domestic reform record.
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is poised to achieve a historic milestone for her country: on Friday, her conservative coalition is expected to become the longest-serving uninterrupted government since World War II. The record, previously held by the late Silvio Berlusconi, marks a rare feat of political stability in a nation known for fragile, short-lived administrations.
Meloni, who took office in October 2022, has steered her government through nearly four years without the crises or defections that have historically toppled Italian cabinets. Her tenure has been defined by a pragmatic approach, notably maintaining steady support for Ukraine, which has helped reassure European allies and financial markets initially wary of her party's post-fascist roots.
However, as the record is celebrated, a more pressing question looms over her legacy: what has Italy gained from this extended period in power? Political analysts point to a mixed record. Lorenzo Pregliasco, a political analyst, noted that despite a wide and stable majority, Meloni's government has struggled to deliver structural reforms. A key judiciary reform was rejected by voters in a referendum, leaving her domestic achievements limited.
Nathalie Tocci, an international relations expert, observed that Meloni's credibility now rests more on her international presence than on domestic results. "If you have five years in office and not much to show when you go back to voters, it can weigh against you," she said, suggesting the premier may downplay the anniversary as elections approach.
The milestone also carries political symbolism. Meloni has framed her tenure as a break from the past, underscoring the opposition's lack of clear leadership. Yet, with national elections due in 2027, the debate is shifting from her ability to govern to whether voters believe her government has delivered enough to earn another term.
On the streets of Rome, residents offered mixed views. Some expressed pride in having a female prime minister achieve this record, while others voiced disappointment with her inner circle. "She should surround herself more with capable people rather than close friends," said one resident, giving her a score of six and a half out of ten.
As Meloni enters the final stretch of her term, the record is set, but the verdict on her government's effectiveness remains open.