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Meloni Calls Referendum on Controversial Judicial Reform

1/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Giorgia Meloni, Italy's prime minister, announced a referendum on March 22-23 to decide reform separating judges and prosecutors.
The reform, an initiative of Meloni's right-wing coalition, was approved by Parliament in October.
Critics including magistrates and the center-left opposition say it could give the government control over prosecutorial decisions.
Meloni has denied plans for early elections tied to the referendum and said she would not resign if the reform fails.

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Story summary

Giorgia Meloni, Italy's prime minister, announced a referendum on March 22-23 to decide reform separating judges and prosecutors.
The reform, an initiative of Meloni's right-wing coalition, was approved by Parliament in October.
Critics including magistrates and the center-left opposition say it could give the government control over prosecutorial decisions.
Meloni has denied plans for early elections tied to the referendum and said she would not resign if the reform fails.