Lorenzo Marsili on the parliamentary elections in Italy
Lorenzo Marsili is transnationally active as a writer and commentator. He is also the founder of European Alternatives, a transnational citizen’s movement. NECE asked Lorenzo Marsili in what way the results of the parliamentary elections in Italy fit in Europe’s current political landscape.The Italian elections have brought further proof that Europe's political landscape remains in turmoil. This should come as no surprise: established parties are proving dramatically unable to address the grave challenges of our time and unwilling to reform an economic system that is expelling a growing percentage of our citizens from decent life. Following a familiar trend, parties perceived to be advocating for continuity have been electorally punished.
Both the traditional centre-left Democratic Party and the traditional centre-right of Silvio Berlusconi have plummeted in the vote, counting for under 33% between them. The real victors are two allegedly "anti-establishment" parties, the Five Star Movement (32%) and the League (17%). But while the latter is part and parcel of the general European trend towards nationalism and xenophobia, and is a close ally of Marine Le Pen's FN, the Five Star represents a uniquely Italian approach to "centrist" populism. In the run-up to the elections they have proposed moderate candidates for ministerial posts and have dramatically toned down their anti-euro rhetoric. The result is a hung Parliament.
What government may emerge is anybody's guess: expect long coalition talks and possible early elections. But, more importantly, the Italian elections bring a further reminder that "things fall apart, and the centre no longer holds". In a situation of great political transformation, with new parties emerging in a very short period of time (from Podemos to En Marche), it is paramount that citizens be informed about political alternatives and even consider taking a direct role in running for elections. Traditional parties, on the other, face a stark choice: accept the challenge of dramatically reforming Europe's institutions and economy, or whither away and watch the electoral revolt continue to grow.
More on Lorenzo Marsili: https://euroalter.com/personnel/lorenzo-marsili