Italy Senate passes DDL Merito reform rewarding public‑sector performance

The Italian Senate gave final approval to the DDL Merito law, a public‑administration reform championed by Minister Paolo Zangrillo. The decree introduces a performance‑based evaluation system for civil servants, linking a portion of their remuneration to measurable results. Only up to 30% of employees in each category can receive the highest scores, ending the practice where almost all staff earned positive appraisals.

The law also reshapes career progression: 30% of senior‑management posts will be filled through internal promotion after at least five years of service and a positive review by an independent, randomly selected commission, while the remaining positions continue to be filled via public competitions. Contracts for managerial roles are limited to three years, renewable once, with a permanent appointment possible after four years of satisfactory performance. The reform aims to place merit at the centre of the public workforce and to curb perceived co‑optation.

Zangrillo emphasized that the measure represents a cultural shift, promising greater incentives for high‑achieving employees and clearer pathways for advancement within the public sector.