The turnout for the 2024 European elections in Italy remained below half of the electorate, marking a significant moment in the country's electoral history. According to definitive data released by the interior ministry early on Monday, the turnout was 49.69%, a drop from 54.5% in the 2019 elections. This low turnout might influence the results heavily, as voters from right-wing factions, such as the Fratelli d'Italia party, might have a greater relative impact on the outcome.
The 2024 European elections in Italy concluded on Sunday with polling stations closing at 11 p.m. Italy's election results are crucial as they will determine the allocation of 76 seats in the EU Parliament out of a total of 720. Italy stands as one of the key nations in Europe with significant representation, only behind Germany and France in terms of seats.
Initial forecasts published between 11:15 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. predict a promising outcome for the far-right Fratelli d'Italia party led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Polls indicate Meloni’s party could receive close to 27% of the votes, positioning it ahead of the social democratic Partito Democratico (PD), which is projected to secure around 21% under the leadership of Elly Schlein.
As votes are tallied, the European Parliament is expected to release further updates on the distribution of seats. Italy’s role in shaping the EU Parliament is pivotal, with its political parties from right-wing and centrist factions playing key roles. The outcome could affect alliances and the overall political landscape in Brussels, particularly in regard to the election of the Commission presidency.
Giorgia Meloni is running as the top candidate for her party, Fratelli d'Italia, while the Partito Democratico is represented by Elly Schlein and Stefano Bonaccini. The Italian election results are being closely monitored, especially given the right-wing party's potential influence in the EU Parliament, which could impact critical decisions and future alliances within the EU.
- In the run-up to the elections, Italy's right-wing government has been a topic of significant discussion. Speculations regarding which political factions might support Fratelli d’Italia in the EU Parliament are rampant. The conservative ECR group, to which Meloni’s party belongs, includes other prominent national conservative parties like Poland’s PiS party and the Sweden Democrats.
- Another potential ally for Meloni’s party could be Marine Le Pen’s Rassemblement National (RN), which is part of the Identity and Democracy (ID) faction comprising Matteo Salvini's Lega party. This looming alliance underscores the broader implications of Italy’s election results on the European political stage.
- The European elections are a critical event for the EU, reflecting the political climate and voter preferences across 27 member states. The 2024 elections have seen varied dynamics, with each country’s results contributing to the overall composition of the European Parliament. Italy's substantial representation, with 76 seats, ensures it will remain a key player in determining EU policy and direction in the coming years.
