Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni downplayed recent tensions within her government during an interview on Quarta Repubblica, joking, “We argue every day, but we share a glass of wine in the evening.” While acknowledging some “hiccups,” Meloni insisted these were normal and not signs of instability, reiterating that the government “will not fall.” Her comments followed a difficult week, marked by the government’s defeat in a Senate Budget Committee vote on the Lega-backed proposal to cut the RAI license fee. Meloni painted a picture of a cohesive administration navigating challenges, emphasizing that it remains focused on delivering what Italians expect.
Meloni also fired back at critics, particularly union leader Maurizio Landini, whose recent protests she dismissed as “politically motivated.” Referencing the low reported turnout for a nationwide strike, she claimed it was a reflection of weak arguments and results on Landini’s part. However, unions countered her narrative, stating that over 70% of workers supported the strike, with half a million people taking to the streets across Italy. Meloni contrasted the current government’s achievements—rising employment rates, reduced precariousness, and increased healthcare funding—with what she characterized as the failures of previous administrations, suggesting that unions are struggling to reconcile their opposition to her policies with tangible improvements for workers.
Addressing accusations of healthcare budget cuts, Meloni categorically denied the claims as “falsehoods” and pointed to a €10.5 billion increase in healthcare funding since her government took office. On migration, Meloni staunchly defended her administration’s controversial Albania plan, insisting it represents an innovative approach closely watched by other EU countries. While legal challenges loom, Meloni vowed to make the initiative work, emphasizing her commitment to long-term solutions. “I knew I’d have to work three times harder than my predecessors,” she said. “And I’m prepared for it.”
