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2w ago

Italian Voters Reject Meloni’s Justice Overhaul in High-Turnout Referendum

The result dents her authority by reviving opponents concerned about judicial independence.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni casts her vote during a referendum on reforms to Italy’s justice system before the polls close in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2026. REUTERS/Remo Casilli
A person holds a placard depicting Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni crossed with the word "No" as supporters of the "No" to the constitutional referendum on justice reform celebrate their victory in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2026. REUTERS/Matteo Minnella/File Photo
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, flanked by Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, left, and Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini, right, addresses the Senate regarding the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region, in Rome, Wednesday, March 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Ballots are counted at a polling station at the end of the vote for a referendum on judicial reform in Rome, Monday, March 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Overview

  • Italian voters, who cast ballots Sunday and Monday, rejected the reform with about 54% voting No and turnout near 59%, according to Interior Ministry results.
  • The plan would have split judges and prosecutors into separate career tracks and overhauled the Superior Council of the Judiciary by creating a new disciplinary court with some members chosen by lottery.
  • Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni conceded defeat and said she will complete her mandate as opposition parties celebrated the outcome as a check on executive power.
  • Analysts say the setback forces Meloni to choose between staying the course, pushing changes to the electoral law, or risking an early election before the 2027 deadline.
  • Turnout rose after a polarizing campaign shaped by concerns over the economy and foreign policy, and the No side led in major cities including Rome, Milan and Naples.