Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has lost a major referendum on a proposed constitutional reform, with preliminary results showing approximately 54% voting “No” and 46% in favour of the reform she supported.
In a social media statement before all ballots were counted, Meloni said Italians had expressed themselves “with clarity” and she would respect the outcome, while lamenting what she described as a “lost chance to modernise” the country.
The referendum was widely interpreted as a broader evaluation of Meloni’s three-and-a-half-year tenure and her right-wing coalition, which has maintained a rare period of political stability. Opposition parties hailed the result as a signal that voters are seeking change ahead of next year’s general election.
The reform aimed to strengthen judicial independence by clearly separating judges and prosecutors in the constitution, creating distinct governing bodies for them, and establishing a new disciplinary court. The government argued these changes were necessary to improve judicial accountability, while opponents warned that the proposals could disrupt the existing balance of power and increase political influence over the courts.
Turnout was almost 60%, reflecting significant public engagement, though many voters reportedly struggled to understand the technical details of the referendum. Observers suggest that communication shortcomings may have contributed to the reform’s rejection.
The outcome comes amid broader concerns in Italy, including a stagnant economy and rising energy costs linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East, factors that may have influenced voter sentiment. Despite the defeat, Meloni has stated she will not resign.
Opposition leaders have described the result as evidence that an alternative to Meloni’s government exists, signalling potential shifts in the political landscape as Italy approaches its next general elections.
