Activists fear low turnout threat to Italy referendum on easing citizenship rules
GuardianMAY 30
Italian Referendums Fail Due to Low Voter Turnout
Above: An elector votes at a polling station in Rome, Italy, on June 8, 2025. Image copyright: Riccardo De Luca/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
While the referendum may have failed, a statement has nonetheless been made. Despite an unprecedented move by a ruling government to disincentivize the public from exercising its democratic right, the results show more people in favor of progressive reform than those who voted for government at the last election. Meloni cannot ignore the demands for a fairer, more inclusive society.
Right narrative
This referendum was nothing more than a virtue-signaling stunt by trade union chief Maurizio Landini to crown himself as leader of the political Left. But shouting slogans doesn’t make policies popular. Most Italians saw through the political posturing, and didn't even show up to vote. Empty proposals and vanity projects don’t inspire real change, they just expose the Left's growing desperation.