Italian PM Giorgia Meloni pursues defamation case

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been granted permission to pursue a defamation case against historian Luciano Canfora, who referred to her as a 'neo-Nazi at heart'. The incident occurred during a school debate in Bari, Italy, in April 2022, prior to Meloni's election victory. The trial is scheduled to commence on October 7, with Meloni seeking 20,000 euros in damages.

This is not the first time Meloni has taken legal action for defamation. Previously, she successfully sued journalist Roberto Saviano and is currently pursuing a case against the lead singer of Placebo for labeling her as 'racist' and 'fascist'. Canfora, a respected figure in Italy, defended his remarks by highlighting Meloni's references to post-war far-right leaders in her autobiography.

Giorgio Almirante, a key figure Meloni mentioned, was associated with the Italian Social Movement (MSI) and the Italian Social Republic (RSI) during World War II. Despite the historical connections, Meloni has distanced herself from undemocratic ideologies, including Fascism, upon assuming office.

Canfora's case has garnered support from various intellectuals, both in Italy and abroad. French newspaper Liberation has organized a petition in his favor. Canfora views the upcoming trial as an opportunity to delve deeper into the study of post-fascist Italy.