Justice Minister Breaks Silence on Paragon Spy Scandal
On Wednesday afternoon, Justice Minister Carlo Nordio unexpectedly responded to two parliamentary questions regarding the Paragon case, which involves allegations of illegal surveillance by Italian institutions using spyware from Israeli company Paragon Solutions. The software was reportedly used to spy on political activists and at least one journalist, Francesco Cancellato, director of Fanpage. Despite previous statements by the government claiming the case’s details were classified, Nordio provided surprising answers, refuting claims that his ministry had contracts with Paragon. He also assured that no one had been intercepted by the penitentiary police in 2024. This decision to respond, which was not coordinated with his colleagues, has caused tension within the government and sparked contradictions, particularly with the Minister of the Presidency, Alfredo Mantovano, who had sought to prevent such revelations. The case continues to raise questions about government transparency and accountability in the use of surveillance technology.
New Commissioner Appointed for “Terra dei Fuochi” Environmental Crisis
On Wednesday, the Italian Council of Ministers appointed Carabinieri General Giuseppe Vadalà as the extraordinary commissioner for the “Terra dei Fuochi” area, a region between Naples and Caserta notorious for illegal waste disposal and toxic fires managed by organized crime. The appointment follows a January ruling by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), which found Italy guilty of failing to adequately address the health risks posed to residents by these illegal activities, including rising cancer rates and birth defects. Vadalà, who has previously overseen the cleanup of illegal landfills and the security of the Malagrotta landfill in Rome, is tasked with creating a detailed action plan and establishing an independent monitoring system for the area within two years. He must submit a progress report to the government within 60 days.
Firenze’s Sollicciano Prison Faces Growing Human Rights Concerns
The Florence Surveillance Court has received approximately 120 complaints from prisoners at the notorious Sollicciano prison, highlighting severe violations of their rights. The overcrowded and deteriorating facility, with inadequate living conditions including poor sanitation, infestations, and broken infrastructure, has been the focus of legal scrutiny. Despite court orders to improve conditions, the prison administration has only relocated some inmates instead of addressing the root issues. Many detainees seek better conditions rather than being transferred, as their ties to the local area are strong. Legal actions are underway, including appeals to the European Court of Human Rights, while staff shortages and bureaucratic delays complicate efforts for reform.
Rome’s Via dei Fori Imperiali Finally Reopened After Metro C Construction
After nearly 12 years of construction, the main carriageway of Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome was reopened on Wednesday, February 19, following the completion of work for the city’s Metro C line. The street, built during the Fascist era, is one of Rome’s most iconic and tourist-heavy areas, connecting Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum and passing through landmarks like the Roman Forum and Trajan’s Markets. While the main construction is finished, minor work on a sidewalk section will continue. The Metro C station at Fori Imperiali/Colosseo, which began in 2013, is nearly complete, with two new stations expected to open by July. The full project, which will add seven more stations, is planned to be completed by 2033.
Juventus Eliminated from Champions League After Extra-Time Defeat to PSV Eindhoven
On Wednesday, Juventus was eliminated from the Champions League after a 3-1 extra-time loss to PSV Eindhoven in the return leg of the playoffs, following a 2-1 win at home on February 11. The first half ended 0-0, and shortly after the break, Ivan Perišić put PSV ahead. Juventus equalized through Timothy Weah in the 63rd minute, but Ismael Saibari scored for PSV to make it 2-1. The aggregate score was tied at 3-3, sending the match into extra time. In the first half of extra time, Ryan Flamingo’s goal sealed the win for PSV. On the same night, Milan and Atalanta were also eliminated by Feyenoord and Club Brugge, leaving Inter as the only Italian team remaining in the competition.
