Italy Approves Electoral Reform Ahead of 2027 Election

Italy’s parliament has approved a controversial electoral reform backed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, introducing major changes to the country’s voting system ahead of the 2027 general election.

The lower house passed the legislation on Thursday in a secret ballot, with 227 lawmakers voting in favor and 164 against. Meloni’s government argues that the changes will strengthen political stability, while opposition parties accuse her administration of attempting to secure an electoral advantage.

The new law establishes a fully proportional representation system, replacing rules under which approximately two-thirds of parliamentary seats were allocated proportionally and the remainder through first-past-the-post constituencies.

A key provision guarantees a parliamentary majority to any party or coalition receiving more than 42% of the national vote.

Meloni defended the legislation, saying it would improve government stability and parliamentary cooperation. She emphasized that election winners should have sufficient political support to govern effectively.

However, the reform comes amid shifting political conditions. Meloni’s right-wing coalition previously maintained a lead in opinion polls, but the emergence of the far-right National Future party in February has weakened support for governing parties.

Recent surveys suggest the centre-right alliance now trails the centre-left opposition, raising questions about whether the electoral changes could ultimately disadvantage Meloni.

Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein criticized the reform but expressed confidence that the opposition could win regardless of the electoral system.

Another controversial provision requires parties and coalitions to announce their preferred prime ministerial candidates before elections.

This requirement creates challenges for the centre-left alliance, particularly as Schlein and former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, leader of the 5-Star Movement, remain divided over potential leadership arrangements.

The legislation also exposed disagreements within Meloni’s governing coalition over voters’ ability to select candidates from party lists.

A compromise eventually preserved significant control for party leaders by automatically prioritizing candidates placed at the top of electoral lists.

The reform required four parliamentary votes before securing final approval, concluding months of negotiations and internal political disputes.

Meloni welcomed the outcome as evidence of unity within her coalition, insisting that governing parties remain committed to delivering their electoral promises.

With Italy’s 2027 general election approaching, the revised voting rules could significantly influence coalition strategies, parliamentary representation and the country's political future.