Giorgia Meloni Becomes Italy’s Longest-Serving PM Since World War II

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has accomplished something politically remarkable by having a government that has been in power for 1,413 days consecutively. This is the longest period any government has been in power in the history of the Italian Republic, excluding the Benito Mussolini fascist government. This is quite remarkable for a country which has never been known for its ability to maintain a government in power for very long periods. Giorgia Meloni took power in October 2022 and has been marking this milestone to demonstrate political stability in light of increasing living costs, rivalry from the nationalist right, among other challenges.

Giorgia Meloni Marks the Milestone in Bari

Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party is marking this milestone with a massive rally in Bari, southern Italy. Thousands of people are expected to attend this rally where she will deliver her speech from a podium overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

This rally is being marked with the theme of “The most stable government, a stronger Italy”, emphasizing the core message of her political campaign which was stability after decades of changing governments.

Italian governments, on average, have lasted for about 14 months over the last eight decades.

Meloni’s Increasing Influence in Europe

At the time that Meloni took office, there were worries in Brussels about her political history with the post-fascist nationalists in Italy. However, her government did not engage in the conflict that many feared it would with the European Union.

Meloni remains committed to supporting Ukraine and has become a key figure on migration, trade, and other European issues. Her supporters believe that the strength of her government is increasing Italy’s reputation on the world stage.

At home, her government can point to a few encouraging signs. In 2026, unemployment was around 5%, the lowest rate since Italy started keeping national records in 2004. Her government has kept Italy under its budget requirements for the EU and reduced migrant arrivals from North Africa by boat since 2023.

Challenges Persist in Politics and Economy

Though all is not bad, however, there are several challenges for Meloni’s administration. Firstly, voters voted against Meloni’s judicial reforms in March, which was a massive blow to her electoral campaign.

Secondly, the issue came up in July when some lawmakers opposed the crucial element of her proposed electoral reforms.

Besides, Italy still suffers from low productivity and stagnant income and has an ageing population. Young people in Italy continue leaving the country in search of better prospects.

At the same time, the EU-funding pandemic recovery programme which boosted growth at the beginning of Meloni’s administration is now over.

PM Modi Congratulates Giorgia Meloni

Honorable Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, congratulated Meloni on the milestone, terming her a “friend” and noting that the success was an indicator of the faith of the Italian citizens.

Modi further thanked Meloni for her friendship which he said helped in cementing the Special Strategic Partnership between India and Italy.