Giorgia Meloni Announces 'Ethical State' Plans in TV Interviews

Italian far-right leader Giorgia Meloni has unveiled her vision for an 'ethical state' in recent television interviews with Del Debbio and Vespa. Meloni, who has been metaphorically wearing a 'helmet' day and night, signaled her commitment to her political agenda during the appearances.

Meloni's government has filed an amendment to allow pro-life activists access to abortion clinics, a move that has been contested by pro-choice groups and liberal parties. The leader defended the decision, stating that it does not breach the 1978 law legalizing abortion in Italy, as the law also envisaged encouraging women to find alternatives to terminating their pregnancies. "When you are ignorant on a subject you must at least have the good sense not to give lessons," Meloni said, hitting back at criticism from a Spanish minister.

The European Commission has clarified that the amendment allowing pro-life activists into abortion clinics is not linked to the decree enacting the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP). While abortion has been legal in Italy since 1978, it remains difficult to access in practice, with around half the country's doctors being conscientious objectors on moral or religious grounds.

Why this matters: Meloni's 'ethical state' plans and the controversial amendment regarding abortion clinics have sparked a heated debate in Italy and beyond. The developments highlight the ongoing tensions between conservative and progressive forces in the country, with potential implications for women's rights and access to healthcare.

Meloni, whose conservative Brothers of Italy (FdI) party has historical roots in the neofascist Italian Social Movement (MSI), has repeatedly condemned fascism and its 'odious' laws against the Jews. However, 12 mostly far-right militants were recently charged for making Fascist salutes at the commemoration of the 1973 Primavalle Massacre, in which two sons of an MSI local leader were killed.

Key Takeaways

• Meloni unveils 'ethical state' vision, signals political agenda
• Govt files amendment to allow pro-life activists in abortion clinics
• EC clarifies amendment not linked to National Recovery Plan
• Abortion access remains difficult in Italy due to conscientious objectors
• Meloni condemns fascism, but far-right militants charged for Fascist salutes