Italian Museums' Limited Autonomy Under Scrutiny

The article argues that Italian museums granted 'attenuated autonomy' remain constrained because directors cannot hire permanent staff or manage personnel. Despite the 2014 reform that gave some museums independence from the Soprintendenze, the Ministry of Culture retained control over hiring and firing. This limits directors' ability to build teams and reward performance. The author, Stefano Monti, contends that after years of reform, the rationale for these limits—such as preventing nepotism or protecting workers—has weakened. International directors reduce familism risk, and staff have had time to prove competence. The case of the Uffizi Galleries in Florence is highlighted: they lack personnel and directors cannot make permanent hires even with budget. Monti calls for full autonomy, questioning whether the current Minister and government have the courage to enact change or will defer it.