Italy’s Political Model: Is Europe’s Future Defined by Instability and the Far Right?
A reporter’s view of Rome
Jason Horowitz, formerly the Rome bureau chief, recalls reporting during the years when Silvio Berlusconi dominated headlines. Berlusconi was a media mogul with political ambitions. Horowitz says he did not recognize the broader change at the time. Looking back after decades covering Italy and Europe, he believes he was witnessing an early version of political developments elsewhere.
Instability across the continent
Horowitz describes what he calls an Italianization of politics across Europe. He identifies coalitions made up of small parties as one source of instability. He also points to voters who are fed up and looking for new saviors. In his account, these political conditions have spread beyond Italy.
The far right moves inward
Horowitz says Britain, France and Germany have followed Italy by allowing the far right into the political mainstream. He considers this the most significant part of the wider shift. The article is adapted from Horowitz’s recent book, “The Italian Job: A Memoir of an American Reporter in Rome.” He is now bureau chief in Madrid.
Key points
- Horowitz sees political instability in Europe increasingly resembling Italy’s.
- He links small-party coalitions to instability across the continent.
- He says voters are seeking new leaders amid frustration.
- He identifies Britain, France and Germany as places where the far right has entered the mainstream.