Still standing: Meloni sets new longevity record in famously unstable Italy

Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s newly-elected hard-right leader, has broken the country’s record for the longest-lasting postwar government, with her administration now spanning 1,413 days. The achievement comes despite internal challenges within her governing coalition, as Italy has witnessed an average of 68 governments in the past 80 years.

To mark the milestone, Meloni will host a rally in Bari, her party’s stronghold, where supporters are expected to gather in large numbers. The event, titled "Il Governo piu stabile, l’Italia piu forte" ("The Most Stable Government, the Strongest Italy"), will feature traditional Puglian light shows and DJ sets, while political speeches will focus on the coalition's achievements during their time in power.

Some of these accomplishments include 1 million more jobs created and a 21 billion euro reduction in personal income taxes. However, critics argue that the fiscal stability hasn't translated to growth, citing increased petrol costs, job insecurity, and a less effective healthcare system. Meloni's coalition, comprising far-right, anti-immigrant groups, has passed over 300 laws and decrees, primarily targeting security threats.

Despite this, Meloni will face questions on how to utilize the remaining time before the 2027 election, as her critics warn of a growing climate of hate and a "war and weapons economy."