Italian Election Guide
The Italian electoral system, the parties, their leaders and possible coalitions.
Southern Europe
EU Balkan Enlargement Is Hardly Too Slow. It May Be Too Fast
The countries of the Western Balkans still have a lot of work to do.
Catalan Liberals Start Language War to Woo Conservatives
A hopeless proposal to ban the Catalan language could bring support from other regions of Spain.
Still No Government in Catalonia, Shades of Fascism in America
Catalan separatists struggle to form a government. The “Is Trump a fascist?” debate is back.
Macron Opens Door in Corsica, Rutte Pours Cold War in Sofia
The Frenchman talks Corsican autonomy. The Dutchman is unwilling to let Bulgaria into Schengen.
Six Economic Challenges for Italy’s Next Government
Slow growth, high debt, youth unemployment… Italy’s next government has its work cut out for it.
South Tyroleans Bide Their Time
Italy’s German speakers welcome a closer relationship with Austria but reject secession — for now.
Politics Isn’t Fair, Italian Edition
The Democrats are unpopular despite governing the country well. Incompetent populists are up in the polls.
Italian Parties Putin-Friendly, But Policy Shift Unlikely
No Italian prime minister is going to start an EU-level rebellion to help Vladimir Putin.
Summary of Recent Developments in Catalonia
What has happened since the election in December.
Italy’s Renzi Has Failed on Two Counts
The Democratic Party leader has failed to unite the left and failed to convince voters he can still deliver reforms.
Spanish Liberals Take Rajoy’s Place in Polls
The independence crisis in Catalonia has shifted support to the liberal Citizens party.
The Pros and Cons of a Flat Tax in Italy
A single tax rate could boost growth and discourage tax evasion, but there are downsides.
Italy’s Right Makes Pact, Democrats Open Door to Grand Coalition
Silvio Berlusconi might still be lured into a coalition with the center-left.
Catalonia in Common Rules Out Supporting Unionist Government
The decision makes another separatist administration almost inevitable.