Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni grabbed attention this week with a straightforward message for migrants who might take offense to Christian symbols. “If you feel offended by a crucifix or a nativity scene, then this is NOT the place where you should live!” This unapologetic statement made waves across Europe and underscored her party’s identity-driven political approach.
The remarks gained traction on social media, with one notable post capturing Meloni’s sentiments with the emphatic declaration: “BOOM! … We will defend God, the homeland, and the family.” This statement highlights Meloni’s mission to shape Italy’s national identity through cultural and religious lenses, particularly in the context of immigration.
Meloni’s leadership has coincided with some of the strictest migration policies seen in Europe. Since her administration began in late 2022 as the head of Fratelli d’Italia (Brothers of Italy), she has quickly reinforced Italy’s place within a rising tide of right-wing politics across the continent. Her collaborations with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and leaders from the Netherlands have focused on measures such as offshore migrant detention, stricter border enforcement, and legal actions against smugglers. These initiatives aim to significantly decrease illegal immigration.
Under Meloni, Italy has reportedly reduced migrant sea landings by about 60% in 2024 compared to the previous year, as indicated by official data following agreements with North African countries and a controversial arrangement with Albania. This plan includes building two migrant processing centers in Albania under Italian jurisdiction, reinforcing her immigration agenda despite legal hurdles that temporarily stalled the construction.
“We will defend borders, law, and the identity of Italy without apology,” Meloni asserted during a Fratelli d’Italia youth rally in Rome in April, shortly before she delivered her statement regarding religious symbols. This unwavering stance is closely linked to her goals for Italy’s immigration strategy, which aims to assert cultural boundaries.
The effects of Italy’s migration policies have been clear. By mid-2024, crossings in the Central Mediterranean saw a steep decline, alongside fewer NGO rescue missions. Supporters of these policies view uncontrolled migration as a direct threat to public safety, economic stability, and cultural integrity. However, such measures have met with fierce resistance from human rights organizations. Amnesty International condemned the practice of outsourcing asylum processing to third countries, claiming it violates international norms. Critics argue that Meloni’s tactics unfairly criminalize those in desperation, with reports indicating around 1,000 migrants have been imprisoned merely for piloting boats—often a desperate choice made by individuals with no other options.
Meloni’s comments about Christian symbols framing belonging resonate with an increasing number of voters in Europe, especially as the European Parliament elections approach in June 2024. Her catchphrase “God, Homeland, Family” echoes the language used by various populist-right groups across Europe, including Germany’s Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) and Spain’s Vox Party.
This symbolic approach is deeply significant. Analysts have noted how Meloni employs religious icons to define who belongs and who does not within Italian society. Even as secular practices decline, a substantial 74% of Italians still identify as culturally Catholic. The crucifix serves as a powerful symbol for Meloni, allowing her to distinguish between “authentic” Italians and those who refuse to assimilate. “I am Giorgia. I am a woman. I am a mother. I am Italian. I am Christian,” she stated in a 2022 campaign speech, summing up her identity politics.
For Meloni, these policies are not just about governance; they are part of a broader ideology focused on defending civilization. Her government’s initiatives—such as tax incentives for families and restrictions on what she refers to as “LGBT lobbies”—align with her party’s program. The immigration approach closely ties into her overarching themes, centered on what some allies call the fight against the “ethnic replacement” of Italians due to unmanaged migration.
Despite accusations of echoing Italy’s more extremist history, Meloni positions herself as a patriotic conservative. Though her party includes members with connections to post-fascist and ultranationalist groups, Meloni has actively distanced herself from that past. She consistently frames her ideology as a defense of Christianity and Western civilization without enforcing religious belief.
Interestingly, even some political rivals have given her credit. British Labor leader Keir Starmer praised Italy’s “remarkable progress” in reducing illegal boat arrivals during a visit to Rome in July 2024. While he did not endorse all of Meloni’s methods, Starmer acknowledged the need for collaborative efforts against human smuggling networks, effectively validating her approach if not her style.
“We’ve moved from a government of gimmicks to a government of pragmatism,” Starmer commented. In response, Meloni has dismissed allegations of rights violations, arguing that Italian laws provide the necessary legal frameworks for her policies.
The stance of the European Union is also shifting. With the rise of right-wing parties, previously controversial measures like Meloni’s plan for migrant containment outside the EU are increasingly under discussion. While some northern countries remain hesitant, a coalition of central and southern European nations—including Hungary and Austria—supports a tougher immigration stance.
As these dynamics play out, stark ideological divisions emerge across Europe. On one side, proponents strive to maintain cultural continuity in the face of demographic changes. On the other, defenders of asylum laws and humanitarian values seek to push back against the populist tide. Meloni’s blend of symbolism and a focus on sovereignty positions her as a key figure for those advocating for cultural preservation. Her policies and the forceful statements she makes highlight her resolve.
How voters respond to Meloni’s potent blend of messaging will become clearer as June 2024 approaches. Observing her strategies, mainstream leaders across Europe find themselves both scrutinizing and drawing inspiration from her political playbook, shaping the future discourse on immigration and identity across the continent.
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