Electionss.

Electionss.

Italian Vote Fails to Pass, Right-Wing Influence Expands as France's Le Pen Holds Rally

Italian Vote Fails to Pass, Right-Wing Influence Expands as France's Le Pen Holds Rally

Italy held a two-day referendum over the weekend to decide whether to ease citizenship requirements for non-EU residents. However, due to Prime Minister Meloni's calls to boycott the vote, the turnout was only 15.9%, rendering the ballot invalid.

On the same day that the referendum results were announced, French far-right leader Marine Le Pen invited right-wing figures from across Europe to rally, heavily criticizing the EU and its immigration policies. She vowed to run in the presidential election in two years aiming to reclaim power.

Residents' reactions indicated that the referendum’s topics were closely related to local labor rights, and while the right-wing party urged voters to abstain, some still expressed a desire to engage in the democratic process.

If the referendum had passed, around 2.5 million residents could have benefited, obtaining citizenship and enjoying rights similar to those of native Italians. This issue remains a pressing topic in the current political climate.

However, Le Pen faces legal troubles over corruption charges and a four-year sentence, creating uncertainty regarding her candidacy. It is reported that young National Rally leader Bardella may take over, and whether he will continue Le Pen's tough stance remains to be seen.