Controversy has erupted over proposed salary increases for Italy's non-parliamentary ministers as part of the 2025 budget. An amendment inserted at the last minute promises to boost the salaries of eight ministers, significantly aligning their pay with their parliamentary counterparts. This move has sparked fierce debate amid concerns about government spending priorities, especially as many Italian citizens struggle financially.
According to reports from Il Sole 24 Ore, if passed, the amendment will add about 7,193 euros net per month to the salaries of those who are not elected members of parliament, who currently earn significantly less than their parliamentary peers. This increase includes additional allowances such as daily remuneration and reimbursements for expenses related to their governmental duties.
The bill currently specifies eight ministers slated for this increase: Matteo Piantedosi (Interior), Guido Crosetto (Defense), Giuseppe Valditara (Education), Marina Calderone (Labor), Alessandro Giuli (Culture), Orazio Schillaci (Health), Alessandra Locatelli (Disabilities), and Andrea Abodi (Sports). These ministers will see their compensation rise from about 10,435 euros per month to approximately 17,800 euros once allowances are included.
The amendment aims to equalize the pay of non-parliamentary ministers with their elected colleagues. Critics argue this proposal appears out of touch with reality, especially as Italy’s citizens face rising costs of living and financial uncertainty. Elly Schlein, the secretary of the Democratic Party (PD), criticized the government’s decision, stating, “While the country struggles to make ends meet, the government has chosen to allocate public resources to increase the salaries of the ministers.”
Giuseppe Conte, leader of the Five Star Movement (M5S), also voiced strong opposition. He stated, “I tried to pass amendments for minimum wage increases and pensions, but they were rejected. Today, they've shown their true colors. How can they not be ashamed? What world do they live in?” His comments reflect broader frustrations with the government’s priorities.
Under the proposed legislation, ministers who are not elected members of parliament would receive not only the base salary but also allowances previously unavailable to them. These include roughly 3,503 euros allocated for daily allowances and about 3,690 euros for reimbursements related to their duties. Additional allowances for travel and communication expenses would also be added, totaling about 1,200 euros yearly.
Contrary to the outrage raised by the opposition, some government officials argue the increase is justified. Guido Crosetto, the Minister of Defense and one of the beneficiaries of the proposed increase, stated, “The principle is fair, and since these ministries serve important functions, they deserve commensurate compensation.” He emphasized the necessity of equitable treatment among government officials regardless of their electoral status.
Despite the heavy backlash, the government appears to be moving forward with the amendment. During discussions on the budget, several party leaders warned about the possible repercussions and the moral implications of such increases amid socio-economic struggles faced by the public.
Political analysts suggest this salary increase could have minor impacts on the overall budget, costing roughly 1.3 million euros annually. Nevertheless, opponents argue this money could be far more wisely directed to assist lower-income citizens. The current budget proposal allocates almost 10 billion euros for the overall economic plan, calling the salary hike for politicians hardly justifiable.
With the amendment still awaiting final approval, discussions have taken on added urgency. The political turmoil has not only drawn public attention to the issue of government salaries but also highlighted the increasing gap between politicians' earnings and the reality faced by ordinary citizens. Critics see this controversy as emblematic of broader issues within the Italian political system, where policy decisions often prioritize politicians’ needs over those of constituents.
The fate of the salary increase amendment will likely influence public perception of the government, especially as increasing numbers of citizens continue to voice their frustrations through protests and social media campaigns. Will the proposed salary adjustments for the ministers hold up to public scrutiny?
Stay tuned as the story develops and the final decisions are made on this contentious subject during the upcoming parliamentary sessions.
