Key facts
- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is hardening her stance on migration and security.
- Meloni's government suspended the Schengen agreement with Spain, escalating a dispute over migrant flows.
- Far-right rival Roberto Vannacci's party is gaining traction in opinion polls.
- Vannacci advocates for 'remigration' and a harder line on immigration.
- Meloni's government has also faced criticism regarding its support for Ukraine, with rivals advocating a softer approach to Russia.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is adopting a tougher stance on migration and security, a move seen as a strategic response to the rise of far-right rival Roberto Vannacci. With an election looming, Meloni is shedding the moderate image she cultivated over four years in office to appeal to her hard-right base.
Meloni's government recently suspended the EU's Schengen free-movement agreement with Spain following an influx of migrants into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta. This action escalated a dispute, with Spain retaliating with checks on travelers from Italy. Meloni stated on X that her government would not compromise on illegal immigration, emphasizing border defense and repatriation.
The challenge from Vannacci, a former general and member of the European Parliament, is significant. His National Future party has been advancing in polls, surpassing some of Meloni's coalition partners. Political analysts suggest this competition is forcing Meloni to sharpen her rhetoric on core issues like security and immigration.
Vannacci advocates for a more radical approach, including a plan for 'remigration.' Meloni's government has previously explored measures like detention hubs for asylum seekers. The crisis in Ceuta provided Meloni with an opportunity to reassert her government's commitment to combating irregular migration.
Some observers view Meloni's actions as driven by domestic political calculations to retain her core electorate. There is also speculation about a potential alliance with Vannacci after the upcoming election. Vannacci's growing support is seen as crucial for the center-right coalition's success.
Meloni's allies deny that her policies are shifting due to Vannacci, asserting her consistent political positions. However, Meloni also faces internal challenges regarding her support for Ukraine, with Vannacci and other coalition partners advocating for a less confrontational stance towards Moscow. The extent of Italy's military aid to Ukraine has been noted as relatively low compared to other European nations.
Differences between Meloni and Vannacci are most pronounced on foreign policy, particularly concerning Russia. Any potential alliance with Vannacci would depend on his alignment with Western democratic values.