The Intelligence from The Economist Rome run: Meloni’s surprising stamina
16 snips
Oct 16, 2025 
John Hooper, Italy and Vatican correspondent for The Economist, discusses Giorgia Meloni's unexpected stability as Italy's prime minister and her coalition management skills. He explains her moderate stance on the EU and migration policies amidst economic challenges. Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief, dives into the issues plaguing Germany's long-distance trains, detailing government efforts to improve punctuality while acknowledging bureaucratic hurdles. The conversation wraps up with a quirky look at the World Conker Championships and its storied traditions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Stability Over Ideology
- Giorgia Meloni has delivered surprising political stability in Italy despite fears about her neo-fascist roots.
- Her government has avoided illiberal shifts and maintained pro-EU and pro-Ukraine positions.
Political Skill Trumps Radical Change
- Meloni's coalition control and campaigning skill underpin Italy's rare political continuity.
- She has chosen cautious governance, preferring limited action to avoid upsetting allies and voters.
Money Masks Political Risk
- Italy has benefited from massive public and EU funds which have cushioned political risk.
- Economic weakness persists, with recent data even showing contraction that could threaten Meloni's standing.