With elections looming in 2027, Roberto Vannacci’s new far-right movement could fatally outflank the prime minister

Giorgia Meloni’s government became the longest serving in Italy’s republican history last month. This unusual political longevity, a moderate foreign policy, a certain personal charisma and even a recent spat with Donald Trump have combined to sharpen Meloni’s profile as the go-to leader on the European right.

Meloni’s personal approval rating – at about 41% – is one of the highest among west European leaders. Her far-right Brothers of Italy party has retained most of its support – a striking feat in our anti-incumbent era and by Italian standards, an achievement.

Riccardo Alcaro is head of research at IAI, Istituto Affari Internazionali, in Rome