Italy’s Meloni faces youth problem as election approaches

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government is facing a youth problem as election time approaches, according to recent opinion polls. Young voters, aged 18 to 34, are increasingly disaffected with her coalition, which now holds less than 30% of their support. The trend could prove costly in the upcoming 2027 election, where Meloni's right-wing coalition is seen as a close contender to the centre-left opposition.

Young voters are leaning towards the centre-left, according to Lorenzo Pregliasco, head of the Youtrend polling agency. Critics argue that Meloni's government has done little to increase opportunities for young people, focusing more on law-and-order measures that disproportionately affect them. Young Italians also show the same gender gap seen in other European countries, with women typically favoring the left and men the right.

The main reason for disaffection is the government's lack of economic reforms, something that primarily benefits those already protected by the status quo. Italy's employment rate among 15- to 24-year-olds is the lowest in the 21-nation Eurozone, and the country invests less in education than its partners. Young graduates in Germany earn about 80% more than their Italian counterparts, and many young Italians emigrate in search of better opportunities.

Meloni's approval rating among under-35 voters stands at just 25%, compared to 35% among the general population. Her government's security measures have also affected young people, leading to protests and increased youth discontent.