Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appeared on the popular Pulp Podcast to appeal to younger voters ahead of a March 22–23 referendum on judicial reform. The proposed changes would separate the career paths of judges and prosecutors — a move supporters call modernisation and critics say risks greater state influence. Meloni, who has increased media engagements, said she would not resign if the referendum failed and discussed topics from domestic security to the war in Iran.
Meloni Joins Popular Rapper’s Podcast to Court Young Voters Ahead of Crucial Justice Referendum
FILE PHOTO: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni looks on as she waits for the arrival of President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides, at Chigi Palace, in Rome, Italy, February 26, 2026. REUTERS/Remo Casilli/File Photo
ROME, March 17 — Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has taken an unconventional tack to reach younger voters ahead of next week’s high-stakes justice referendum, appearing on the widely followed Pulp Podcast hosted by rapper Fedez and his co‑host, known as Mr Marra.
The referendum, set for March 22–23, asks Italians to vote on a government-backed package of judicial reforms that supporters say will modernise the system and opponents say risks increasing political influence over prosecutors. The outcome is viewed as an important test for Meloni’s right‑wing coalition ahead of the 2027 general election.
Why the Podcast Appearance Matters
Meloni has largely kept a low profile during the heated campaign, but in the days before voting she has ramped up media appearances to mobilise supporters who analysts say have been relatively disengaged on the issue. The Pulp Podcast has more than 300,000 YouTube followers and several episodes have drawn more than 1 million views, giving the prime minister a prominent platform to reach younger and digitally engaged audiences.
Topics Discussed
According to a statement from the podcast’s producers, the episode (due to air on March 19) covered a range of issues, including the war in Iran and domestic security. Meloni also reiterated she would not resign if the referendum went against her.
"If you vote 'no' today only to send Meloni home, there could be a risk that you end up with both Meloni and a justice system that does not work. It does not seem like much of a bargain to me," the statement quoted her as saying.
A photo released by producers shows Meloni seated between Fedez — the former husband of fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni — and Mr Marra.
What the Reforms Would Change
The measures on the ballot would separate the career tracks of judges and public prosecutors. Under the current system, both enter the judiciary through a single exam, follow the same career path and can switch roles early in their careers. Backers say the reforms will professionalise each role; critics warn they could make it easier for the state to exert influence over prosecutors.
Debate over reforming Italy’s judicial career structure has persisted since the late 1980s, but partisan divisions have repeatedly stymied substantive change.
Reporting by Angelo Amante; Editing by Andrew Heavens
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