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Institutional Bullying and the Erosion of Democratic Norms
The comments made by Giuseppe Conte, a prominent political figure in Italy, highlight a concerning trend in the country’s governance and institutional interactions. Speaking on the sidelines of a significant trial related to the death of Giulio Regeni, Conte addressed what he perceives as a troubling pattern of behavior by the President of the Council. He criticized the President for using his position of power and communicative influence to target a single magistrate through a video, even after a complaint was filed by the intelligence services, which operate under the authority of the Prime Minister. Conte described this behavior as "institutional bullying," a term that encapsulates the misuse of institutional power to intimidate or coerce individuals within the system. He emphasized the need to reject such practices, as they undermine the integrity and independence of judicial and other public institutions.
The Role of Secular Members of the CSM and the Transfer of the Magistrate
Conte also pointed to the involvement of secular members of the Consiglio Superiore della Magistratura (CSM), Italy’s highest judicial council, in requesting the transfer of the magistrate in question. He suggested that this move, which appears to be orchestrated by figures like those aligned with the President of the Council, is part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on the judiciary. The CSM, which is responsible for the governance and discipline of magistrates, is meant to operate independently and impartially. However, when its decisions appear to align with political agendas, it raises concerns about the politicization of the judiciary and the erosion of checks and balances in the system. Conte argued that such actions must be scrutinized and rejected to preserve the autonomy of the judiciary and ensure that it remains a pillar of democracy.
Conte’s Call for Respect and Accountability
In his remarks, Conte contrasted his own approach to governance with that of the President of the Council. He noted that he had previously received notifications from the same magistrate but chose not to respond with public attacks or personal accusations. Instead, he emphasized the importance of respecting institutions and maintaining decorum, even when disagreements arise. Conte stated, "I did not make videos, I did not tell him that he is a bankruptcy magistrate, I did not say that I feel blackmail and intimidated, but with great respect for an institution other than what the government is, I have made myself available to provide all the elements of information in my possession." This approach, he argued, is how a Prime Minister should behave—by setting an example of respect for the law and for institutions.
The Danger of Politicians Acting Above the Law
Conte also issued a stark warning about the risks of politicians acting as if they are above the law. He stated, "Politicians must respect the laws no less than common citizens, they are not above the law." This statement reflects a broader concern about the erosion of democratic norms and the return of authoritarian tendencies in governance. Conte’s comments suggest that there is a growing sense of impunity among some political leaders, who feel empowered to disregard the rules and conventions that are meant to hold them accountable. He warned that such behavior could lead to a regression to a time when power was abused and institutions were subordinated to political whims, adding, "We will not accept it."
The Significance of the Giulio Regeni Case
The context of Conte’s remarks is particularly significant, as he was speaking during the trial related to the death of Giulio Regeni, an Italian researcher who was brutally murdered in Egypt in 2016. The case has become a symbol of the struggle for justice and accountability in the face of institutional failures and international complications. The fact that Conte chose this moment to address issues of institutional bullying and the politicization of the judiciary underscores the interconnectedness of these issues. The ability of the judicial system to operate independently and hold power to account is crucial not only for cases like Regeni’s but also for the broader health of democracy in Italy.
A Call to Action for Democratic Renewal
Conte’s statements serve as a call to action for all stakeholders in Italy’s democracy. He urged citizens, politicians, and institutions to remain vigilant and to uphold the principles of the rule of law and the separation of powers. His warnings about institutional bullying and the dangers of politicians acting above the law resonate beyond the specific case he addressed. They speak to a broader need for democratic renewal and a recommitment to the values that underpin a healthy, functioning democracy. As Italy continues to navigate complex political and social challenges, Conte’s words remind us of the importance of accountability, respect for institutions, and the need to resist any attempts to undermine the integrity of the judiciary and the democratic system as a whole.
