Italian referendum: for or against Renzi

Will it be a no, or against all odds a yes? Italians will vote on their new constitution on Sunday. Policy makers in Brussels are holding their breath. Because if Renzi loses the referendum, euro-critical parties could come to power in the country.

The new constitution provides for a new balance of power in the Italian parliament. The Senate and House of Representatives – comparable to the Dutch Senate and House of Representatives – now have equal power there. If the new constitution is adopted, that balance will disappear.

According to the plans, the Senate will be considerably smaller and can no longer torpedo bills in the future. The shaky Italian governments must be put in a stronger position than they are now. At the same time, the central government is gaining more competences in decision-making over the Italian regions. The latter point is particularly sensitive in Italy.

Sharpening knives

But that is not the only reason why Prime Minister Matteo Renzi's opponents have been dragging their knives lately. After an overconfident announcement to resign if the Italians reject his proposals, the opposition parties saw their chance. Not the new constitution, but voting Renzi out of the referendum has become the goal.

Five Star Movement

The Five Star Movement and the Lega Nord, the two major populist parties in the country, are campaigning fiercely. Mainly because of this, Brussels and the financial markets are nervous about the course of the vote. If Renzi loses, the Five Star Movement has a chance to take over. This party is critical of the euro and the functioning of the European Union.

Insecure

For the time being, according to polls, the no camp could count on a win, although the difference with yes is only small. Also, at least a quarter of Italians still don't know what to vote. The polls close at XNUMX p.m. on Sunday and the counting can begin.

Photos: Rop Zoutberg