Italy’s Judicial Reform Wins Final Approval: What Travelers Should Know

This article explains Italy’s recently approved constitutional reform of the judiciary, which passed its final parliamentary reading in the Senate and will now head to a public referendum.

I break down what the law changes, how parliament voted, the arguments from both sides, and why this national debate matters even when you’re sipping an espresso on the Italian Riviera.

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What the reform changes

The core of the reform is a constitutional amendment that formally separates the career paths of prosecutors and judges, preventing magistrates from switching between the two roles.

Supporters argue this will reduce conflicts of interest and factionalism. Opponents say it risks weakening judicial independence and increasing executive influence over prosecutors.

Separation of careers explained

The new rule blocks transfers between the prosecutorial and judicial tracks, creating distinct, permanent career paths.

The government says this protects impartiality by avoiding overly close professional ties, while critics fear it will tilt the balance of power within the justice system.

Parliamentary vote and referendum

The reform cleared its fourth and final reading in the Senate but did not secure the supermajority that would have made the change immediate and unchallengeable.

Because it failed to reach a two-thirds majority in both parliamentary houses, the decision now goes to the voters in a national referendum.

Numbers and next steps

In the Senate the bill passed with 112 votes in favor, 59 against, and 9 abstentions.

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That margin triggers the referendum route, where citizens will be asked to approve or reject the constitutional amendment at the ballot box.

Political and legal debate

The reform has sparked intense debate among judges, prosecutors, political parties and legal associations, with public demonstrations and committees forming quickly on both sides.

The magistrates’ union ANM and many opposition figures have immediately mobilized against the proposal, while government ministers and supporters defend it as necessary modernization.

Arguments for and against

Here are the main points being made by each side:

Supporters: Argue the reform will ensure impartiality, reduce factionalism within a politicized judiciary, and make the roles clearer and more accountable.

Opponents: Claim it undermines judicial independence, might place prosecutors under executive influence, and does not address pressing public concerns like the length of trials.

Political moves: Justice Minister Carlo Nordio, a former magistrate, has offered a public debate with the ANM, while opponents quickly formed a “No” committee to campaign ahead of the referendum.

Practical implications for citizens and visitors

Beyond the legal technicalities, the debate is shaping public conversation across Italy — from national media to neighborhood cafés — and will influence how citizens view the separation of powers.

For travelers, this is a reminder that politics can be visible even in picturesque corners of the country, often adding texture to the experience rather than disruption.

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On the Italian Riviera

If you’re traveling the Ligurian coast, you may notice referendum posters or hear lively discussions in towns from Ventimiglia and Sanremo in the west to La Spezia and Lerici in the east.

Coastal communities such as Imperia, Alassio, Savona, Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, Rapallo, Sestri Levante, Monterosso, Vernazza and Camogli are places where local cafés and piazzas buzz with opinion.

Whether you’re exploring the chic marinas of Portofino or savoring seafood in Genoa’s historic center, the national conversation about judicial reform will be part of the local rhythm.

Keep an ear out for debates among shopkeepers and fishermen — they often provide the most authentic insights into how constitutional questions land on the Riviera’s shores.

Here is the source article for this story: Govt’s reform of judiciary wins final approval – Politics

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