A recent closed-door hearing at the European Parliament was intended to provide a platform for the Italian government to address concerns regarding the rule of law in Italy. The session, however, saw only lower-level officials from Italy attending, while a prominent MEP from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Fratelli d’Italia party criticized the event in a press conference.
The hearing was organized by the Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights Monitoring Group, which is part of the Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE). This group is responsible for monitoring human rights across EU states. The session forms part of the EU’s ongoing democratic monitoring efforts. Additionally, the European Commission is set to release its annual rule of law report for all EU member states in July.
Italy has recently faced significant scrutiny over its adherence to rule of law principles. During the hearing, several issues were reportedly highlighted: conflicts between Prime Minister Meloni’s government and the judiciary, legislative practices bypassing parliamentary oversight through decrees, inefficiencies within the judicial system, and intimidation against dissenting voices. Concerns about political interference with media freedom were also raised.
The European Commission’s 2024 assessment of Italy pointed out “excessive use” of emergency decrees and noted an “increasing prevalence” of abusive lawsuits targeting journalists. It also reported attacks on humanitarian organizations and protesters.
Italian authorities are urged to engage constructively with EU institutions dedicated to safeguarding rule of law standards in member countries. Addressing these concerns through appropriate reforms is seen as essential for maintaining Italy’s standing as a mature democracy within the European Union.
As challenges related to rule of law persist across Europe—including in Hungary and Greece—the role of EU institutions remains crucial. Through reporting and other measures such as infringement proceedings or public statements on troubling developments, these bodies aim to ensure that Italy does not follow a path that undermines fundamental EU values.
