On June 8 and 9, 2025, Italians will head to the polls to vote on five abrogative referendum questions that could significantly reshape labor laws and citizenship regulations in the country. The polling stations will be open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Sunday and from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Monday. The referendums were called by decree of the President of the Republic on March 25, 2025, and published in the Official Gazette No. 75 on March 31.
The upcoming referendum is not just about the content of the questions posed but also about achieving the necessary quorum for the votes to be valid. According to Article 75 of the Italian Constitution, a minimum turnout of 50% plus one of the eligible voters is required for the results to count.
Among the five questions, four pertain to labor issues, while one addresses citizenship. The first question asks whether voters want to abolish the rules regarding illegitimate dismissals outlined in the Jobs Act, which established increasing protections for open-ended employment contracts. The second question seeks to remove the cap on severance pay for dismissals in small businesses.
The third question targets the use of fixed-term contracts, aiming to eliminate certain regulations to reduce precarious employment conditions. The fourth question concerns health and safety at work, proposing to modify current laws that limit liability for client companies in cases of accidents involving subcontractors.
The final question proposes to halve the residency requirement for non-EU foreigners seeking Italian citizenship from ten years to five, reinstating a standard that existed until 1992.
Political reactions to the upcoming referendum have been mixed. Lucio Malan, a senator from Fratelli d'Italia, stated, "Abstention is legitimate," arguing that the Constitution allows voters the choice to not participate if they believe it is necessary. His party's stance is echoed by Forza Italia leader Antonio Tajani, who believes that not voting is also a form of self-expression. Tajani's comments have been interpreted as a call for abstention, which some political leaders have criticized.
Paolo Barelli, the group leader of Forza Italia in the Chamber of Deputies, emphasized that his party does not wish to engage in the internal conflicts of the Democratic Party or pursue changes through referendums when legislative avenues are available.
In contrast, Maurizio Lupi, leader of Noi Moderati, has publicly stated his intention to vote against the referendums, asserting that they should be rejected at the polls. The opposition parties, including the Democratic Party and the Five Star Movement, have united in their condemnation of calls for abstention, labeling it as undemocratic. Elly Schlein, the Secretary of the Democratic Party, stated emphatically, "This is an appointment that cannot be missed," urging voters to participate.
Riccardo Magi from +Europa characterized the ruling majority's call for abstention as "shameful," while Maurizio Landini, the Secretary of the CGIL, described it as a significant political error. Giuseppe Conte from the Five Star Movement echoed these sentiments, criticizing the government's position and emphasizing that it is a serious mistake to encourage voters not to participate.
Conte's position, however, is somewhat ambiguous regarding the citizenship question, as he has left the decision to individual party members. Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has defended the Jobs Act and criticized the reformist wing of the Democratic Party, suggesting that if the left aligns solely with the CGIL, it could lead to a decisive victory for Giorgia Meloni.
The referendum's primary challenge lies in reaching the required quorum. If the turnout fails to meet the 50% plus one threshold, the results will be invalidated, and the current laws will remain in effect. The debate surrounding these referendums highlights deep divisions within Italian politics, particularly concerning labor rights and immigration.
This referendum season marks a critical juncture for Italy, as it addresses pressing issues that affect not only the workforce but also the integration of foreign nationals into Italian society. With both supporters and opponents passionately advocating for their positions, the outcome of the vote could have lasting implications for the future of labor laws and citizenship in Italy.
Historically, Italy has utilized abrogative referendums on various occasions, including significant votes on divorce in 1974, environmental issues in 1987, and electoral laws in 1993. The upcoming referendum is poised to continue this tradition of direct democracy, allowing citizens to voice their opinions on pivotal legislative matters.
As the referendum dates approach, the political landscape remains charged, with ongoing debates about the implications of the proposed changes and the importance of voter participation. Will Italians turn out in sufficient numbers to make their voices heard, or will the calls for abstention lead to a quiet polling day? Only time will tell as the country gears up for this significant democratic exercise.
