On the night of December 31, 2024, Italian President Sergio Mattarella delivered his tenth New Year’s speech from the Quirinal Palace, emphasizing messages of hope, responsibility, and patriotism. Speaking for 16 minutes, Mattarella addressed the nation against the subdued backdrop of three flags: the Italian Tricolor, the European flag, and the flag of the Quirinale, as he welcomed the new year with simplicity and sobriety.
Dressed in navy with a matching tie and situated within the elegant yet understated Lucernaio room, the President's surroundings featured only an adorned Christmas tree, which symbolized hope through its yellow ribbons. Uniquely, the white ornaments decorating the tree included excerpts from the Italian Constitution, gifted from a volunteer association, underscoring the foundational values of democracy.
Mattarella’s speech reiterated the importance of composure and hope amid challenges such as war and chaos influencing Italy and the world. The President conveyed gratitude toward those present during the address recording, acknowledging advisors, long-standing collaborators, and the entire team supporting the presidency.
Following his remarks, political reactions were swift. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who engaged Mattarella by phone, expressed her appreciation for his emphasis on patriotism. Her office released statements highlighting, “The call to the founding value of patriotism, as the engine of daily action and living sentiment, moves the commitment of those serving the public and the national community.”
Meloni also recognized Mattarella's acknowledgment of positive macroeconomic signals, particularly concerning exports and employment, adding the need to bolster efforts against precarious labor conditions. “Thank you for reminding us of Italy's strong commitment on the global stage, especially through our G7 Presidency, dealing with crises and pursuing peace,” she noted.
Senate President Ignazio La Russa remarked on the clarity of Mattarella’s messages, which covered pressing national issues including violence, femicides, and the cultivation of respect among citizens. He stated, “This year, Mattarella delivered a strong and clear message on all the most relevant themes of the Republic.”
Similarly, Chamber President Lorenzo Fontana articulated how Mattarella's reflections contribute fundamentally to Italy's future. “The call for democratic participation and building peace synonymous with justice and respect for freedoms is fundamental,” he said, thanking the President for his words.
On the other hand, Elly Schlein, Secretary of the Democratic Party (PD), stressed the urgency of creating a fairer and more attentive society to collective needs, asserting, “Mattarella reminded us how urgent it is to build a fairer, more supportive country.” She emphasized the speech's motifs on peace and equality, stating these are not merely ideals but necessities for dignity and rights.
Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte praised Mattarella as “a reference of wisdom and hope” over the past decade, highlighting the President's cautionary note on the societal fractures evident during crises. “It is our patriotic duty to be reminded of this throughout the year,” he declared.
Through this address and the subsequent political responses, Mattarella's New Year speech has reinforced the importance of unity and collective responsibility as Italy steps confidently toward 2025. Amid the backdrop of global challenges and domestic issues, the sentiments shared during this symbolic moment ushered not just the arrival of the new year but also renewed calls for civic commitment and social solidarity.