Italian Senate debates preference voting reform

The Senate is reviewing a constitutional amendment that would introduce preferential voting into Italy's new proportional system, with a coalition‑wide bonus and a voting constraint. The proposal, backed by the centre‑right alliance of Lega and Fratelli d'Italia, seeks to avoid a referral to the Constitutional Court.

Matteo Salvini has signaled willingness to compromise, urging his senators to support a revised bill that could also address gender‑parity concerns. The amendment is slated for hearings before the Constitutional Affairs Committee, with a push to complete the process before the summer recess. While Forza Italia remains cautious about compatibility with its liberal wing, opinion polls show about 63% of Italians favour the introduction of preferences. The outcome could shape the electoral rules ahead of the 2027 elections.