Italy's Big Vote: Judges vs. Prosecutors

Italy is gearing up for a significant vote on March 22-23. The country will decide on a major change to its legal system. This change could impact how judges and prosecutors work. The vote is a big deal for Giorgia Meloni's government. It's also a test of her support before the next election in 2027. The proposed reform aims to separate the career paths of judges and prosecutors. Currently, they can switch roles easily. But under the new plan, they must choose one path at the start. This change is part of Meloni's broader agenda. It's a key part of her right-wing coalition's plans. The government argues that this separation is necessary. They say it will prevent conflicts of interest. They also believe it will reduce political bias in the legal system. However, many magistrates and opposition groups disagree. They see it as an attempt to control the judiciary. They fear it could limit the independence of prosecutors.Recent polls show that Italians are divided on this issue. It's a topic that has sparked debate for years. The judiciary has accused the government of trying to influence which crimes are investigated. The opposition echoes these concerns. They worry about the potential consequences of this reform. Giorgia Meloni has addressed speculation about early elections. She has said she won't resign if the referendum fails. The reform was approved by parliament in October. But it needs a referendum to become law because it changes the constitution. The vote will be a crucial moment for Italy's legal system and political landscape.