Matthew Salvini is following in the footsteps of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, by forming an alliance with the Fpo of Austria and Ano of the Czech Republic. The goal is to create a large alternative group to the left in Europe, starting by excluding those who were not included in the agreement between the EPP, Socialists, and Liberals. This broad Eurogroup of Identity and Democracy would include parties such as the League and French Rassemblement National, with new additions like Chega.
The Brothers of Italy led by Giorgia Meloni are also considering joining forces with their PiS allies in Europe. While historically distant from Orban, PiS is now considering joining the ‘Patriots for Europe’ movement. Forza Italia remains aligned with the European Popular Party and supports collaboration with Meloni’s Conservatives rather than Greens. The decision on whether or not PiS will join will be crucial in determining support for Ursula von der Leyen’s new commission in the European Parliament.
As negotiations progress, Meloni keeps all options open for FdI’s role in the new executive. Italy aims to secure important positions within this new commission, with Raffaele Fitto potentially taking on a vice presidency role. FdI’s vote in the European Parliament hinges on how these negotiations unfold and what opportunities are presented for Italy within this new commission.
This alliance will have far-reaching implications for Europe’s political landscape as it marks a shift towards nationalist politics and away from traditional liberal ideologies that have dominated European politics for decades.
Italy has been at the forefront of this movement as Salvini’s Lega party has been instrumental in pushing for more nationalist policies both domestically and internationally.
The formation of a large alternative group to challenge traditional power structures will undoubtedly lead to heated debates about immigration policies, economic integration, and other contentious issues that have divided Europe for years.
With its growing influence on European affairs, Italy could play a key role in shaping this new political landscape that promises to be more unpredictable than ever before.
