Italy’s Conte Fights to Retain Power

Italy faces a political crisis as a junior coalition partner withdraws support from Prime Minister Conte, leaving him without a majority in the Senate. Conte has several options, including resigning, seeking a new majority, or calling for a vote. The President may decide on new elections, but the pandemic complicates this. The Italian press largely agrees that elections are not feasible now. Despite the crisis, market reactions remain calm, indicating confidence in the central bank's measures.

What triggered the political crisis in Italy?

• A natural disaster

• A scandal involving the Prime Minister

• A junior coalition partner withdrew support

• An economic recession

What are some of the options available to Prime Minister Conte in response to losing his majority?

• Ignore the situation

• Form an alliance with foreign governments

• Declare a state of emergency

• Resign, seek a new majority, or call for a vote

Why does the Italian press believe it is not the right time for elections?

• The weather conditions are unfavorable

• The pandemic and logistical challenges

• There is a lack of political candidates

• The Prime Minister is too popular

What role does the President of the Republic play in this political crisis?

• He can appoint a new Prime Minister

• He can veto any decision made by the Prime Minister

• He can dissolve the Parliament

• He can decide on new elections or a technocratic government

How have the markets reacted to the political crisis in Italy?

• They have shown no reaction

• They have crashed completely

• They have remained relatively calm

• They have been extremely volatile