Giorgia Meloni's hard-right government has achieved a significant milestone by becoming Italy's longest-lasting postwar administration. As of September 2, 2026, Meloni's government has been in power for 1,413 days, surpassing the previous record held by Silvio Berlusconi. This achievement is particularly notable in a country known for its political instability, with nearly 70 governments over the past 80 years.
Marco Osnato, a prominent lawmaker with Meloni's far-right Brothers of Italy (FdI) party, expressed pride in this milestone, stating, "It is certainly a point of pride." Analysts suggest that this record may enhance Meloni's image as Italy prepares for national elections in 2027. Despite FdI consistently leading in opinion polls, recent challenges have emerged, complicating the path to re-election.
One significant setback was the defeat in a justice reform referendum earlier this year, which indicated that voters may be seeking an alternative to the current coalition. This defeat also raised questions about the government's performance, particularly in delivering on key promises such as strengthening the prime minister's powers and increasing regional autonomy.
Critics argue that the government has not sufficiently addressed Italy's structural issues, leading to stagnant real wages and a lackluster economic growth forecast of 0.6 percent for 2026. Chiara Braga, leader of the centre-left opposition Democratic Party's parliamentary group, stated, "This stability was not capitalised upon. It did not lead to any significant improvement in people's living standards or business competitiveness."
Supporters of the government, however, highlight achievements such as tax cuts, increased tax revenues, and a more prominent role for Italy in global geopolitics. Osnato noted, "When it comes to foreign policy, Italy has never been so central, particularly in Europe." The government's efforts in areas like migration and energy policy have positioned Rome as a driving force in Brussels.
Despite these accomplishments, Meloni's coalition faces risks, including potential voter shifts to Roberto Vannacci's newly-created Futuro Nazionale party, which polls at around 7 percent. The ruling alliance, which includes the far-right League of Matteo Salvini and conservative Forza Italia, benefits from infighting within the left-leaning opposition and increasing voter abstentionism. Voter turnout in 2022 was a record low at 64 percent, falling below 50 percent for European elections in 2024.
The challenges ahead for Meloni's government are significant, with issues such as the cost of living, public health system deterioration, security, and immigration topping Italians' concerns. The government's struggle to address these problems was evident in Meloni's booing at a sporting event in Taranto, a city facing economic and environmental challenges. Surveys indicate a growing sense of disappointment and anger among voters, with many believing that "no one can solve their problems," according to political scientist Giovanni Orsina.
