Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni is set to host this week’s summit of the Group of Seven industrialized nations, positioning herself as the most stable European Union leader. Meloni's far-right Brothers of Italy party emerged as the strongest in Italy following the European Parliamentary elections, solidifying her position as a potential bridge builder in Europe.
Meloni's success has brought a rare stability to Italian politics, contrasting with the challenges faced by her German and French counterparts. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz both saw setbacks from far-right parties in recent elections, highlighting Meloni's growing influence in the region.
Despite leading a far-right party, Meloni has maintained a centrist approach, particularly in foreign policy. This stance has positioned her as a reliable trans-Atlantic partner amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
At the upcoming G7 meeting in Puglia, Meloni will focus on global conflicts, the impact of AI, and issues related to Africa, including Italy's concerns about uncontrolled migration and human trafficking.
Analysts view Meloni as a moderate figure within the right-wing spectrum, capable of bridging the gap between far-right and center-right ideologies. Her pragmatic policies, such as redirecting rescue ships to northern ports instead of enforcing a naval blockade, have garnered support beyond traditional far-right voters.
In recent polling, Brothers of Italy secured 28.8% of the vote, strengthening their majority within the governing coalition alongside Lega and Forza Italia. The Democratic Party also saw gains, re-establishing itself as the main opposition force in Italy.
Despite criticism from opposition leaders, Meloni's government remains focused on its agenda, prompting calls for a united effort to build a viable alternative. The evolving political landscape in Italy reflects a shifting balance of power and priorities as Meloni navigates her role on the international stage.
