Italy is holding a weekend referendum on changes to its constitution that would alter how judges and prosecutors are governed.
What began as a technical tweak has morphed into a political showdown that could reshape Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s standing.
The measure would split the career tracks of judges and prosecutors, set up separate governing bodies for each and create a new disciplinary court.
Supporters say the aim is to introduce more accountability and merit into a notoriously overloaded justice system.
Meloni has campaigned energetically for a "yes" vote, trying to reach new voters by appearing on popular podcasts and speaking alongside cultural figures to attract younger people.
Her message: reform will make the courts fairer and more effective, and rejecting it would keep a dysfunctional system in place.
Opponents see a different risk.
They argue the change could be used by the government to increase political influence over the judiciary and have turned the vote into a broader protest against Meloni’s administration.
Trade unions and a range of civil society groups are leading the "no" campaign.
There is no minimum turnout required for this referendum; the side with the most ballots wins.
Polls suggest that low participation could advantage those opposing the reform, making voter mobilization a critical factor.
The proposal traces back to Forza Italia, the party founded by the late Silvio Berlusconi, and taps into long-standing grievances about informal factions within Italy’s courts.
Some legal scholars, including critics of Meloni, have said separating roles could curb cosy networks among magistrates.
Meloni’s critics point to her own clashes with judges and warn that any constitutional change pushed through by a hard-right government raises questions about checks and balances.
She and her allies deny any intent to control the judiciary.
If the referendum fails, analysts say Meloni would not resign but would suffer a political blow that undermines the stability she has championed since taking office three and a half years ago.
A victory for the government, meanwhile, could clear the way for further institutional ambitions.
With economic pressures and international tensions shaping public mood, the result will reflect both views on judicial reform and a wider assessment of Meloni’s record.
Either outcome will carry consequences for Italy’s political landscape ahead of the next general election.
