Politics in Italy

Italy is a democratic republic governed under a written Constitution. Political power comes from the people and is exercised through elections, representative institutions, and other democratic activities. The Parliament, called Parlamento, debates and passes national laws. It has two chambers: the Chamber of Deputies, or Camera dei deputati, and the Senate of the Republic, or Senato della Repubblica. The Government, called Governo, directs national policy and public administration. It is led by the President of the Council of Ministers, commonly called the Prime Minister, and must retain the confidence of Parliament. The President of the Republic, or Presidente della Repubblica, is the head of state. This office represents national unity, performs constitutional duties, and helps ensure that political institutions follow the constitutional process. Political parties organize competing ideas and nominate candidates. Because several parties commonly win representation, parties may negotiate a coalition to create a parliamentary majority and support a government. Parties that do not support the government form the opposition. They question ministers, criticize proposals, present alternatives, and help Parliament hold the government accountable. Politics also takes place in regions, provinces or metropolitan cities, and municipalities, known as comuni. These levels address different public matters, so a political decision in Italy may be national, regional, or local. Citizens participate by voting, joining parties or associations, contacting representatives, attending lawful meetings, supporting petitions, and discussing public choices. Courts, an independent press, civic organizations, and constitutional safeguards place important limits on political power.