Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been hailed as a breakthrough for women in politics, but she has also faced criticism for missed opportunities. Meloni, the leader of the hard-right party Brothers of Italy, has garnered a high approval rating and increased support since the elections. However, her policies and actions have divided observers when it comes to gender equality.
Meloni’s relatability and down-to-earth image have resonated with many voters, particularly women. However, critics argue that her party and cabinet lack adequate female representation. While Meloni has implemented measures to address domestic violence and increase child benefits, opposition politicians claim that some of her policies indirectly discriminate against women.
For example, the axing of unemployment benefits affects women with young children who were the main beneficiaries. Additionally, tax breaks that incentivize low-earning women to stay at home have been criticized for perpetuating gender inequalities. Meloni’s opposition to a minimum wage, which would primarily benefit women, has also drawn scrutiny.
Moreover, Meloni’s government has been accused of hindering women’s participation in the labor market. Italy’s pandemic recovery plan, which aims to improve gender equality, has been delayed in its implementation, potentially jeopardizing funds allocated for nursery construction.
There were concerns prior to the election that Meloni would weaken constitutional provisions for abortion. Although she has not directly targeted abortion rights, her coalition members have drafted a law that could indirectly make abortion illegal by granting legal standing to the fetus from conception. Such actions and rhetoric have alarmed women’s rights advocates, who fear a regression in civil rights.
Furthermore, Meloni’s government has made ideological moves that appease her far-right base but raise concerns about discrimination. For instance, local authorities were instructed to stop registering same-sex couples as parents, leading to the removal of some women from their children’s birth certificates.
This contentious stance on minority rights has raised apprehensions about wider discrimination. The suspension of a school class following the verbal abuse of a gay teacher serves as an example of the potential impact.
While some feminists appreciate Meloni’s resistance to so-called woke language, others criticize her position. The criminalization of surrogacy, for instance, is supported by radical feminist Marina Terragni but opposed by younger women like Valeria Manieri.
Despite these divisive issues, Meloni’s impact on European politics cannot be ignored. Female leaders such as Ursula von der Leyen and Roberta Metsola have shown support, seeking to incorporate Meloni into European center-right politics. As the leader of the European Conservatives and Reformists Party, Meloni could exert significant influence if a projected right-wing surge occurs during next year’s European Parliament election.
Italian society and women’s rights advocates closely monitor Meloni’s tenure as prime minister. While she has gained popularity and approval, criticisms remain regarding gender inequality within her party and government. Italy’s EU-funded pandemic recovery plan presents an opportunity to address these issues, but failure to seize this chance could undermine Meloni’s position as the country’s first female prime minister. Women both in Italy and beyond are watching closely to see if the breakthrough Meloni represents will bring about meaningful change or remain a missed opportunity.
