Meloni Government Accused of Politicizing Italian Cultural Institutions

The Meloni government has sparked controversy by amending the mandate of the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia di Cinecittà, cutting short the term of its board and scientific committee by two years to gain greater control over future appointments. This move is part of a broader pattern of political interference in cultural institutions, which critics argue prioritizes political loyalty over efficiency and long-term planning. The government has openly declared its intention to 'conquer culture' and reshape its power structures. While such practices are not new, the current administration's speed and disregard for institutional continuity risk undermining years of progress in self-financing and operational effectiveness. Stefano Monti, partner at Monti&Taft, warns that this approach could increase cultural organizations' dependency on public funding, both politically and economically. The article argues that the real issue is not about freedom of expression but about a process that limits culture's role, favoring a political vision over sustainable governance.