Rai cuts cultural programs amid political pressure allegations
On June 24, 2026, the Democratic Party submitted a parliamentary question to Rai's CEO, warning that cuts to cultural and educational programs threaten the public broadcaster's mission. At least five shows on Rai 3 and Rai Radio 2 face cancellation or reduction. Confirmed cancellations include 'Via dei Matti numero 0' (hosted by Stefano Bollani and Valentina Cenni) after five seasons, and 'Riserva Indiana' (curated by Stefano Massini) after over 70 episodes. 'Dilemmi' with Gianrico Carofiglio is reportedly also slated for removal. On radio, 'Caterpillar' (hosted by Massimo Cirri since 1997) has been shortened and moved from 18:00 to 19:45, with renewal uncertain. The opposition and the Usigrai union accuse the right-wing government of Giorgia Meloni of exerting political pressure to silence critical voices. Rai offered Bollani and Cenni a prime-time special 'Le Quattro Stagioni,' which they declined. The new schedules will be announced on July 3 in Ancona.
Key facts
- Democratic Party filed a parliamentary question to Rai on June 24, 2026
- Confirmed cancellations: 'Via dei Matti numero 0' (Stefano Bollani, Valentina Cenni) after 5 seasons
- Confirmed cancellation: 'Riserva Indiana' (Stefano Massini) after over 70 episodes
- Reported cancellation: 'Dilemmi' with Gianrico Carofiglio
- Radio program 'Caterpillar' (Massimo Cirri) shortened and moved to 19:45, renewal uncertain
- Rai offered Bollani and Cenni a prime-time special 'Le Quattro Stagioni,' declined
- Usigrai union says programs are being dismantled piece by piece
- New schedules to be announced on July 3 in Ancona
Entities
Artists
- Stefano Bollani
- Valentina Cenni
- Stefano Massini
- Gianrico Carofiglio
- Massimo Cirri
Institutions
- Rai
- Partito Democratico
- Commissione parlamentare di Vigilanza sulla Rai
- Usigrai
- Rai 3
- Rai Radio 2
- Artribune
Locations
- Ancona
- Italy