Conte positions M5S as dominant force, challenges Schlein's PD agenda
Giuseppe Conte is using his role as M5S leader to set the political agenda and pressurise Democratic Party secretary Elly Schlein, while the gap between their parties has narrowed dramatically.
Elly Schlein's victory in the 2023 primary gave the Democratic Party a surge in public support, yet the latest surveys indicate that the Five Star Movement under Giuseppe Conte is now only a few points behind. Conte, having recovered from illness, has become the leading voice on the left, steering the primary agenda and demanding clear policy positions from Schlein. The PD secretary continues to champion a detailed programme, focusing on foreign affairs, re-armament and Ukrainian assistance, while coalition allies push back, insisting on dialogue with the government.
Analysts note that the narrowing gap could reshape the centre-left coalition's power balance, potentially limiting the PD's influence over key ministries. Conte's experience as a two-time prime minister adds weight to his challenge, while Schlein must decide whether to lean on internal party pluralism or seek broader alliances. The evolving contest may turn the upcoming primary into a personality showdown rather than a policy contest.
Why it matters
The tightening race between M5S and PD could determine the centre-left's leadership and policy direction in Italy.
How this story developed
- Sep 20 Meloni unveils draft law capping foreign pupils, mandating Italian for parents, banning burqa and hijab in schools
- Sep 21 Meloni cited research indicating that foreign‑born students make up 11.6% of Italy’s school population.
- Sep 23 Meloni publicly endorsed a foreign‑student limit, referencing earlier comments by President Sergio Mattarella.
- Sep 25 Meloni referenced Mattarella’s earlier calls to avoid clustering foreign‑language pupils when presenting the decree.
- Sep 25 The decree earmarks 17.5 million euros for extra Italian‑language teaching and sets fines of 200‑1,000 euros for violations.
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