The oft-divided Italian radical left has united behind the star of the Greek left, Alexis Tsipras, in the European elections. Will this be enough to avoid yet another electoral failure? Euro elections landscape, 2014.
Sub-state institutions may claim that they need self-government in order to maintain their distinct progressive tradition while, in reality, the distinct progressive tradition is often created in order to justify claims to self-government.
In Italy, the European elections are gaining importance because they could well constitute a watershed in the long and chequered political career of Silvio Berlusconi. Euro elections landscape, 2014.
Our young bloggers from across the EU discuss the rise of the far right in Europe. Part one here.
April 12 saw violence break out in the capital of Italy as protesters responded to new reforms proposed by current Prime Minister Matteo Renzi that would create significant reductions to public sector spending.
This excerpt is taken from the encounter between Beppe Grillo and Matteo Renzi on 19 February. Commentary follows.
What was behind the "unofficial" referendum on Venetian independence? Why was it so popular? And could we soon be saying arrivederci to Veneto?
What Europe needs is a re-engagement of her citizens in the integration project: Europe needs to start making Europeans again.
For his detractors, Matteo Renzi is a new Berlusconi pursuing charisma, rather than articulate political ideas. Written off by left-wing commentators as ambitious and superficial, Italy’s youngest ever Prime Minister is fighting for Italy’s soul.
This excerpt is from a debate in the European Parliament referring to the expiry on 1 January 2014 of temporary labour restrictions on Bulgarian and Romanian workers (on 15 January 2014). Commentary follows.
Southern Italians who have emigrated to northern Italy for economic reasons have often faced discrimination from their wealthier compatriots. But now northern Italians are emigrating to Switzerland for economic reasons - and are suffering similar discrimination themselves. Read more from our You T
Last week, Matteo Renzi’s government obtained the backing of the Italian Parliament, aiming to revolutionise the country's old politics. But can his political style and smart tweeting be enough?