Giorgia Meloni, the Prime Minister of Italy, has emerged as a major winner in the recent elections for the European Parliament. Five years ago, her party only won 6 percent of the vote, but this time around, her hard-right Brothers of Italy party secured nearly 29 percent of the vote, making her the only leader of a major Western European country to come out reinforced from the balloting.
The victory comes at a crucial time for Ms. Meloni as she prepares to host a summit of the Group of 7 major economies in Italy. This summit will give her the opportunity to showcase herself as a legitimate member of the world’s most influential leaders.
Ms. Meloni’s rise to power has not been without controversy, given her far-right, euroskeptic credentials and post-fascist roots. However, she has managed to position herself as a pragmatic partner on key international issues, earning the respect of the European establishment.
Her success has also influenced other far-right leaders, such as Marine Le Pen in France, who have softened their stances on important issues to appeal to a broader audience. Ms. Meloni’s approach is seen as a model for far-right leaders looking to make inroads into the mainstream.
As she gears up to host the G7 summit, Ms. Meloni’s influence on the international stage is growing. She has positioned herself as a critical player on issues like support for Ukraine, distinguishing herself from other parts of the hard right that tend to be more pro-Russian.
Despite her success, Ms. Meloni faces challenges at home, with Italy’s productivity lagging behind the European Union’s and youth unemployment remaining high. While she may be celebrated on the international stage, some locals in Italy are more concerned about the lack of opportunities for the country’s youth.
Overall, Giorgia Meloni’s rise to power and influence on the international stage mark a significant shift in European politics, with her ability to navigate both domestic and international issues setting her apart as a key player in the region.
