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Italy’s Justice Reform Referendum Campaign Intensifies as Polls Show ‘Yes’ Up 10 Points

Voters will be asked to confirm a constitutional overhaul that separates judges and prosecutors, in a no‑quorum vote shaped by sharply opposing claims.

Overview

  • A new Only Numbers survey reported by La Stampa shows 38.9% for Yes versus 28.9% for No, with 52% of respondents saying they do not know the reform’s details.
  • The reform would separate the careers of prosecutors and judges, create two distinct judicial councils with members chosen partly by sortition, and establish an autonomous high disciplinary court.
  • Naples prosecutor Nicola Gratteri urges a No vote, arguing the change would not speed trials and could let governments steer prosecutions by setting priorities for public prosecutors.
  • Supporters, including journalist Pierluigi Battista and former magistrate Piero Tony, say the overhaul strengthens judicial impartiality and curbs factional power within the magistracy.
  • The referendum follows parliamentary approval short of a two‑thirds majority and will be held next spring without a turnout threshold, as figures such as Matteo Salvini predict a wider Yes margin.