Political blow for Giorgia Meloni: the referendum on justice reform indicates a possible defeat for the Italian prime minister

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is facing a possible defeat following the referendum on judicial system reform, according to exit polls suggesting that the 'No' camp has garnered between 49% and 53% of the votes. This could mark a turning point for Meloni, who was successful in previous elections but now finds herself in a vulnerable position domestically, amid a stagnant economy and international challenges.

The turnout was nearly 60%, and many 'No' voters expressed their dissatisfaction with Meloni's administration, rather than an informed opinion about the proposed reform. The reform aimed to separate the careers of judges and prosecutors and to divide the Superior Council of Magistracy, but it was criticized by the opposition as a threat to judicial autonomy. A defeat could revitalize the center-left opposition, giving them the chance to form an alliance to counter Meloni.