The European Commission has raised serious concerns about Italy's commitment to the rule of law, particularly regarding recent judicial reforms and press freedom.
The Commission's annual report highlights a lack of progress in protecting journalists, citing an increase in defamation cases that hinder journalistic activities.
It specifically calls for reforms to safeguard press freedom and protect journalists' sources.
Additionally, the report criticizes the Italian government's proposed constitutional changes that could centralize power in the executive branch, raising alarms about the potential erosion of checks and balances.
The Commission emphasizes the need for a comprehensive reform of the public broadcaster, Rai, to ensure its independence from political interference.
Overall, the report paints a troubling picture of Italy's current political landscape, urging the government to address these critical issues promptly.