2025 Rule of Law Report – Country Chapter: Italy

In the 2025 Rule of Law Report, the European Commission notes that Italy’s media regulator operates independently and is adequately resourced to manage its expanding mandate. The decision to maintain the RAI licence fee at its 2023 level (€90) has ensured increased financial resources for the public service broadcaster in 2025. A legislative reform of RAI’s governance and funding structure is currently under debate in the Senate.

Despite existing legal protections, journalists in Italy continue to face significant professional challenges. Threats and intimidation remain persistent concerns. The report highlights an increase in legal actions against journalists, including strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), often initiated by politicians and government officials. Serious concerns also persist regarding the regulation of judicial information disclosure. Questions have been raised about the protection of journalistic sources and professional secrecy, especially in light of an unprecedented case involving the use of spyware against a journalist—an act found to contravene national laws and the principle of professional secrecy. Progress on the draft reform of defamation law has stalled, despite its importance for strengthening press freedom and aligning with European standards.

Recommendations by the European Commission themed media freedom:

• Advance legislative work to ensure that public service media are funded through mechanisms that support their independence and ability to fulfil their public service remit.

• Continue progress on the draft reform of defamation laws, including provisions for the protection of journalistic sources and professional secrecy, while safeguarding press freedom and ensuring compliance with European standards for the protection of journalists.