During a dramatic session at the Chamber of Deputies on March 19, 2025, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni found herself at the center of a heated exchange regarding the fundamental principles of European unity. In a response to criticisms from opposition parties, Meloni invoked the Manifesto di Ventotene, a historic document penned in 1941 by Altiero Spinelli and Ernesto Rossi, emphasizing its role as a blueprint for a unified Europe based on federalist and socialist ideas.
"I don't know if this is your Europe, but certainly it is not mine," Meloni stated with conviction, drawing both applause from her center-right colleagues and reproachful frowns from the opposition. This retort sparked a flurry of protests from lawmakers, particularly from the leftist factions, who accused her of distorting the manifesto's intent. The uproar grew so intense that the president of the Chamber, Lorenzo Fontana, was forced to suspend the session, which resumed hours later amidst continued dissent.
Meloni's invocation of the Manifesto di Ventotene was part of a broader commentary on the European project, particularly as it relates to recent debates around the European Union's direction and policies. The Manifesto itself, written during the oppressive atmosphere of World War II, proposes a vision of a European federation as an antidote to nationalism, which the authors argued fosters conflict and division. Spinelli and Rossi, both of whom faced imprisonment for their anti-fascist activities, penned their ideas on the isolated Ventotene island, calling for an integrated Europe that would eliminate trade barriers and establish direct representation at the continental level.
However, Meloni's references to the manifesto's more radical sections, particularly the call for changes to private property and references to a 'revolutionary party,' were seen by her opponents as an attempt to misrepresent the narrative. Federico Fornaro, a member of the Democratic Party, responded sharply, labeling Meloni's use of the manifesto as "an act of grave importance," asserting that the text stands as a symbol of federal Europe against the forces of nationalism that have historically led to war.
Echoing his sentiments, Marco Grimaldi from the Left emphasized the foundational role of the Manifesto in shaping the federalist vision of Europe, arguing that Meloni's interpretation undermines its significance. He stated, "The Manifesto di Ventotene is the anthem of federal Europe against the nationalists who have produced two wars, and using it in this manner is unacceptable."
The fiery debate reflected not only the sharp divisions within the Italian parliament but also within the broader European context. Critics of Meloni raised concerns over her national-conservative stance, warning that it represents a significant deviation from the core values of the EU. Her comments triggered a cascade of accusations about the rise of nationalism and the legacy of fascism, particularly in the face of current events involving rising tensions within Europe.
Amidst this turmoil, Meloni maintained her stance regarding the ongoing European discussions, particularly around trade agreements such as the Mercosur deal. While expressing conditional support, she reiterated the need for reciprocity and quality assurances to protect Italian producers, suggesting that a truly free market must also be an equitable one.
Commenting on another critical matter, the Prime Minister highlighted the recent conversations between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting new possibilities for a limited ceasefire concerning strategic infrastructures. This development, she claimed, could pave the way for diplomatic progress in the ongoing conflict.
Meloni did not shy away from controversial topics like the digital euro, asserting Italy's position that the euro should not be replaced by digital currencies—advocating for a balanced monetary approach in times of technological changes.
In her closing remarks, Meloni redirected the discussion towards the nature of contemporary political alliances, particularly regarding her views on Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein's opposition to Trump. "When you say Trump can never be an ally, does this imply we should leave NATO and disregard our ties with the G7?" Meloni questioned, reiterating her belief that international relations should transcend individual elections.
As the session wound down, the voices of dissent echoed, with lawmakers challenging Meloni's interpretations and demanding accountability for her policy decisions. The confrontations in the Chamber signify a broader struggle over the trajectory of Italy's role in Europe, as well as debates surrounding nationalism, fascism, and democratic values.
In response to the controversy, Gianfranco Pagliarulo, president of the ANPI (National Association of Italian Partisans), condemned Meloni's remarks, emphasizing that the Manifesto di Ventotene embodies the principles of freedom, equality, and anti-nationalism, calling it the manifesto of antifascists. "How can Giorgia Meloni share the ideas of a manifesto written by those who were exiled by the fascist regime she aligns with? Ventotene represents a Europe of freedom, labor, and social equality, distinct from her vision," he stated.
The passionate exchanges in the Chamber on March 19 serve as a reminder of the persistent ideological battles that define Italy's and Europe's political landscape. While Meloni's government navigates these challenges, the dialogue surrounding the Manifesto di Ventotene continues to resonate as a symbol of the struggle for a unified Europe free from the shackles of the past.
