Giorgia Meloni's rise highlights Italy's shift within EU politics
Giorgia Meloni, leader of Fratelli d'Italia, became Italy's prime minister after receiving the ceremonial silver bell from Mario Draghi, marking a historic first handover.
The traditional handover of Italy's silver bell took place at the Chigi Palace, where Mario Draghi, a former European Central Bank governor, passed the emblem to Giorgia Meloni, making her the first female recipient. Meloni, once involved in neo-fascist activism, now heads Fratelli d'Italia, a party that emerged from the legacy of Benito Mussolini's regime. At 45, she assumes the premiership, reflecting a transformation of Italy's political landscape.
Her rise occurs as the European Union readies substantial funds to revive economies battered by COVID-19 and to support ecological reforms. The event underscores the tension between Italy's nationalist leadership and broader EU integration efforts.
Why it matters
Meloni's ascent reshapes Italy's role in the EU and signals a shift toward nationalist politics in Europe.
How this story developed
- Oct 5 Europe heads into winter with low gas stocks, Lithuania says its supply remains safe
- Oct 9 EU ministers approved a market-stability reserve that will automatically adjust the supply of emission allowances, aiming to limit price spikes ahead of the full rollout of ETS 2 in 2028.
- Oct 16 A €45 price trigger and a strengthened market‑stability reserve were adopted.
- Oct 18 The European Commission now allows member states to target 75‑80% gas storage by November 1 instead of the earlier 90% requirement.
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