Roberto Vannacci, an Italian General with military credentials, has made a controversial transition from soldier to politician. Despite being widely mocked and criticized for his extreme views on women, the LGBTQ+ community, and immigrants in his book “The World Upside Down,” he is now the lead candidate for Matteo Salvini’s far-right Lega party in the European elections. Vannacci’s book unexpectedly became a bestseller, selling nearly a quarter of a million copies and sparking intense public debate. His message resonated with parts of Italian society, leading to his popularity and eventual political candidacy.
Vannacci’s appeal as a politician does not come solely from his extreme views, but also from his belief in freedom of speech and the idea that no topic should be off-limits for discussion. He represents a style of politics that values authenticity and the ability to speak one’s mind without consequence. This approach has been influenced by figures like Silvio Berlusconi, who promoted a similar rhetoric during his time in politics. Vannacci’s candidacy represents a continuation of this trend in Italian politics, where outrage and controversial statements are used to mobilize support among voters.
The rise of figures like Berlusconi and now Vannacci reflects a shift in Italian democracy, where politicians are increasingly shaped by the opinions of their constituents rather than the other way around. This change has resulted in a more polarized political landscape where extreme views are given prominence, often at the expense of civil discourse. Vannacci’s candidacy is emblematic of this shift and highlights the changing dynamics of political engagement in Italy.
However, Vannacci’s newfound political success has not been without controversy. He has faced trouble at home, including suspension from the army for dereliction of duty, as well as charges of embezzlement and fraud related to his expenses as a military attache in Moscow. Additionally, he is under investigation for alleged incitement to racial hatred. Despite these challenges, Salvini has continued to support Vannacci, showcasing their political alliance and commitment to their shared values.
Vannacci and Salvini’s political partnership represents a larger cultural shift in Italy, where populist and far-right views are becoming increasingly mainstream. This trend, according to experts, reflects a decline in civic relations among individuals in Italy and across Europe. The rise of figures like Vannacci and Salvini is seen as a continuation of historical patterns in Italian politics, including fascism and populism. For observers, the Italian case serves as a warning about the direction of politics in Europe and the potential impact on democratic norms and civil society.
