Italians are voting over two days in referendums concerning easier citizenship for children born in Italy to foreigners and enhanced job protections. Low public awareness and turnout risk invalidating the votes, as a 50% plus one turnout threshold is required. Premier Giorgia Meloni's stance of not casting a ballot has drawn criticism, while supporters argue the reforms would align Italy with other European countries and promote social integration.
Italians vote in referendum on easing citizenship requirements
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Italians are voting over two days in referendums concerning easier citizenship for children born in Italy to foreigners and enhanced job protections. Low public awareness and turnout risk invalidating the votes, as a 50% plus one turnout threshold is required. Premier Giorgia Meloni's stance of not casting a ballot has drawn criticism, while supporters argue the reforms would align Italy with other European countries and promote social integration.
Trending- 1 A decade ago: Center-left government passed a law that the current referendums aim to reverse.
- 2 2011: Latest comparable referendum held (turnout 30.3% at 1700 GMT).
- 3 2022: General election where center-right coalition won with 12.3 million voters.
- 4 Mid-May (likely 2025): Opinion polls showed only 46% of Italians were aware of the referendum issues.
- 5 Sunday (likely June 8, 2025): Voting begins. Interior Ministry data showed national turnout at 15.9% at 1700 GMT.
- 6 Monday (likely June 9, 2025): Polling stations close at 1300 GMT.
- If turnout is too low, the referendums will be invalid.
- If passed, new citizenship rules could affect 2.5 million foreign nationals, promoting social integration and faster access to civil/political rights.
- Labor reforms could change job security and compensation.
- Lack of public debate and low awareness are significant issues.
What: Referendums in Italy on easing citizenship requirements for children born in Italy to foreigners and on providing more job protections.
When: Voting over two days, starting Sunday (likely June 8, 2025). Polling stations close Monday at 1300 GMT. The article was published on 2025-06-08.
Where: Italy, specifically Milan.
Why: To reform citizenship laws to better integrate second-generation Italians and to roll back previous labor reforms, making it harder to fire workers and increasing compensation for layoffs, as well as addressing workplace security.
How: Citizens cast votes in a referendum. The validity of the vote depends on achieving a turnout of 50% plus one of eligible voters. Campaigners are urging participation, while some political figures, like Premier Giorgia Meloni, are criticized for actions that might dampen turnout.