Italy prepares to reinstate voter preference votes

The centre‑right coalition in Italy is close to an agreement on re‑introducing preferential voting in the next electoral reform, a move the prime minister highlighted as popular with voters. The planned changes are slated for a September vote and follow a recent summit of governing allies.

The proposal comes amid long‑standing criticism of the current system, which originated with the “Porcellum” law crafted under former minister Roberto Calderoli and has contributed to a steady decline in turnout, falling from over 80 % in 2006 to around 64 % in recent elections. Law‑maker Maurizio Lupi and other officials have argued that restoring voter choice could revive participation and curb party‑controlled list allocations.

If adopted, the reform would shift the balance between party discipline and individual candidate appeal, potentially reshaping intra‑coalition dynamics and influencing future campaign strategies across Italy.