Europe (Washington Insider Magazine) – After almost two years of building up her credentials as a pragmatic stateswoman willing to work with – and within – the European mainstream to achieve positive results for her indebted nation, Giorgia Meloni has suddenly hit the brakes, made a turn, and gone back to where she originally came: the Eurosceptic trenches.
Opposition to von der Leyen
Meloni’s directive aligns her with far-right factions in the European Parliament, who oppose von der Leyen’s policies. Critics within these factions view von der Leyen’s Green Deal as “ecological ideology,” her migration reforms as “unprotected borders,” and her rule of law focus as an attack on “national sovereignty.”
Past Moderation Efforts
According to Euronews, Meloni’s stance on various issues appeared more centrist previously. She supported Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, advocated for financial and military assistance, and backed sanctions against the Kremlin. On migration, she played a crucial role in advancing the New Pact on Migration and Asylum, emphasizing “mandatory solidarity” to help frontline nations like Italy manage asylum seekers.
Contrasting Reactions
Von der Leyen’s re-election campaign included overtures to Meloni, despite opposition from progressive groups. However, when the European leaders met to allocate top EU positions, Meloni was excluded from key decisions, prompting her to denounce the process. Despite these tensions, von der Leyen secured a second term with a significant majority, while Meloni’s party confirmed its opposition after the results were announced.
Future Implications
Meloni’s recent actions have strained her image as a constructive EU leader and reinforced her Eurosceptic reputation. The forthcoming structure of von der Leyen’s new College of Commissioners will reveal the extent of this political shift. Meloni’s bid for a high-profile portfolio might be met with resistance, impacting her influence within the EU.
Conclusion
Giorgia Meloni’s recent political maneuvers signal a return to her Eurosceptic origins, challenging her previously cultivated image of pragmatism and moderation. This shift is set to have lasting effects on her standing within the European Union and her relationship with other EU leaders.
