Italian voters reject judicial overhaul, dealing blow to Meloni government

Italian voters have rejected a major judicial reform proposed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, dealing a significant political setback to her government less than a year before national elections.

Near-final data from the Interior Ministry showed the “No” camp won about 54 per cent , while the government-backed “Yes” vote secured roughly 46 per cent. The referendum recorded a higher-than-expected turnout of nearly 59 per cent , reflecting strong public mobilisation after a polarised campaign.

The proposed reforms aimed to reshape Italy’s judicial structure . A key measure sought to separate the career paths of judges and prosecutors , preventing them from switching roles, which the government said would improve impartiality. Another provision involved overhauling the High Judicial Council , the body overseeing judicial appointments and discipline, by splitting it into three chambers and introducing a lottery-based system to select members instead of internal elections.

However, the proposals faced strong criticism. Legal experts and opposition leaders warned that the changes could undermine judicial independence and weaken merit-based appointments. The lottery system, in particular, raised concerns about reduced accountability and institutional expertise . Critics also accused the government of attempting to expand political influence over the judiciary .

Analysts say the complex nature of the reforms made them difficult for voters to fully understand, prompting many to opt for caution. The opposition successfully framed the vote as a defence of democratic checks and balances , boosting support for the “No” campaign.

The result energised the centre-left opposition and exposed divisions within Meloni’s ruling coalition , potentially weakening her leadership at home and abroad. It may also complicate her broader political positioning, including her alignment with Donald Trump.

With elections approaching, the outcome highlights public resistance to controversial institutional reforms and poses challenges for the government’s future agenda.