Italy will hold a referendum on March 22-23 over a contentious reform of the justice system, sources close to the matter said on Monday. The vote will mark a key test of support for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government ahead of the 2027 general election.
The proposed judicial overhaul, which would separate the career paths of prosecutors and judges, is a flagship reform of Meloni’s right-wing coalition. It has drawn fierce opposition from magistrates and the centre-left, who argue it threatens judicial independence.
The government has accused magistrates of undue interference in areas ranging from public works to immigration. Officials say the reform is necessary to prevent conflicts of interest between judges and prosecutors and to reduce potential political bias.
Recent polls show Italians remain divided on the issue, which has been a source of political tension for decades. Critics, including the judiciary and the centre-left opposition, have accused the government of seeking to control prosecutors and influence which cases are investigated.
Last week, Meloni dismissed speculation that a successful referendum campaign could lead to early general elections. She said she would not resign if the reform were rejected.
The justice reform was approved by parliament in October but must be put to a referendum before becoming law because it entails a constitutional change.
Currently, magistrates enter the legal profession through a single exam and may switch roles throughout their careers. Under the reform, candidates would choose at the outset whether to become a judge or prosecutor, with no possibility of switching later.
The council overseeing appointments and disciplinary matters would also be split into two self-governing bodies. Members would be selected by lottery rather than elected, a change aimed at preventing lobby groups from gaining influence.
