Meloni's agenda until the next elections: security, migrants, tax wedge

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is strategically shaping her government's agenda with an eye on the upcoming elections, prioritizing themes of security, immigration, and fiscal relief.

Recent government communications have focused on security measures, such as empowering municipal police to detain violent individuals in nightlife areas, and on educational achievements, like a reduction in school dropout rates to below the EU average. These points are part of a broader narrative that Meloni's government is weaving, emphasizing a series of smaller accomplishments that, in their view, have improved Italy's standing over the past three and a half years.

A recurring message from Meloni's staff is that "a thousand Italians are hired per day" since the government took office. This perspective, while highlighting positive employment figures, tends to overlook data where Italy has lagged, such as low wages, labor productivity, energy costs, and the slow pace of renewable energy development. The government's focus has consistently been on issues often perceived as distinct from major macroeconomic challenges.

Looking ahead, Meloni's administration plans to address several key areas. These include establishing centers for undocumented migrants in Africa, in cooperation with other European nations, and continuing to boost purchasing power by renewing public contracts, including those for law enforcement and educators. Tax wedge reductions, which have already provided significant relief to citizens, are also expected to be extended, potentially through June 2027.

Furthermore, plans are underway to expand the scope of special economic zones (ZES), currently focused on southern Italy, to encompass all regions, a move anticipated to please industrial associations like Confindustria. As the legislative term nears its end, Meloni is expected to increase her domestic travel, shifting focus from international diplomacy to internal policy matters.