Italy’s Crisis—and Europe’s
< < Go Back
The president rejects the populist election winners, setting up a clash between democracy and the EU.
Minor decisions and small mistakes can change history. Italian President Sergio Mattarella’s decision to reject the populist right-left coalition’s attempt to form a government in Italy may turn out to be a turning point for Europe.
While Mr. Mattarella’s desire to protect the country from turbulence is no doubt sincere, his action could end up having the opposite result. By openly invoking the role of investors, financial markets and the defense of the eurozone in his speech on Sunday, the president lends credence to the populist argument that Italy has become the battleground in a war between the international establishment and national democracies. Even if populists win the elections, their supporters believe, they will never be allowed to hold power for fear that they would oppose the dogma that dominates the eurozone.
More From The Wall Street Journal (subscription required):
Rss Feed