Italian Voters Reject Judicial Reform Referendum

Italian voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposed constitutional overhaul of the judiciary in a referendum held on Monday, delivering a significant setback to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her right-wing coalition government. The vote, which saw 53.2 percent opposing the changes and 46.7 percent in favor, drew a turnout of 58.9 percent, one of the highest in recent referendums according to Interior Ministry data.

The reform sought to separate the career paths of judges and public prosecutors and divide the High Council of the Judiciary, an independent body overseeing judicial discipline, into two entities. Proponents, including Meloni's Brothers of Italy party and its allies, argued the measures would streamline Italy's often slow and bureaucratic court system, reducing vulnerabilities to political influence. Critics, including opposition parties, civil society groups and legal associations, contended the changes could erode checks and balances by shifting too much authority toward the executive branch.

In a video statement after the results became clear, Meloni conceded the defeat but affirmed she had no intention of resigning, distinguishing her approach from former Prime...