PD's Schlein Campaigns Against Judicial Reform in Perugia Rally

Elly Schlein, leader of Italy's Democratic Party (PD), has launched a vigorous "No" campaign against the constitutional judicial reform scheduled for a referendum on March 22-23, 2026.

Speaking to journalists in Perugia during a campaign event, Schlein framed the debate directly: "This constitutional reform doesn't improve justice for citizens—even [Justice Minister Carlo] Nordio admits that. It doesn't speed up trials, doesn't increase understaffed court personnel, doesn't stabilize 12,000 precarious justice workers. So it's not a reform that improves justice for citizens."

Core Campaign Arguments

Schlein's central question cuts to the political heart of the matter: "Who does this reform serve, and what purpose does it serve?"

The PD leader emphasized concerns about judicial independence: "Democracy requires that the Constitution ensures every power encounters limits to protect citizens." She argued that judicial independence protects ordinary citizens—those without money or political connections who need the courts to defend their rights.

Procedural Concerns

Beyond substantive objections to the reform's content, Schlein criticized the legislative process employed: "This changes seven articles of the Constitution without a single amendment accepted in Parliament—a first in republican history. No constitutional reform had ever passed through Parliament locked down by the government in this way."

The reform cleared the Italian Senate but failed to reach the two-thirds supermajority required for automatic enactment. Under Italy's constitutional framework, reforms approved by simple parliamentary majority must be confirmed by popular referendum.

The Referendum Details

The referendum is scheduled for March 22-23, 2026. Voters will be asked to confirm or reject the constitutional law on judicial reform. A "Sì" (Yes) vote would enact the reform, while a "No" vote would leave the Constitution unchanged.

Importantly, no participation quorum applies—the outcome depends solely on the majority of valid votes cast, regardless of turnout. This procedural reality means every vote carries weight regardless of overall participation levels.

The Campaign Path Forward

Schlein urged citizens to "inform themselves on the merits and vote No." The PD has already organized campaign events across multiple Italian regions to mobilize voters before the March vote.

For Italian residents planning to vote, registration requirements follow standard procedures—Italian citizens automatically receive voting cards, while eligible foreign residents should verify their enrollment well in advance through local anagrafe offices.

The referendum represents a significant moment in Italy's judicial history, with the Democratic Party arguing that the proposed structural changes could weaken rather than strengthen protections for ordinary citizens.