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Atreju 2024 set the path for Italy (and Europe)
The Atreju 2024, the highly anticipated annual kermesse organized by Fratelli d’Italia, a prominent party within the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), was held from December 8 to December 15 at the iconic Circo Massimo in Rome. This year’s edition, aptly themed “The Italian Way”, served as a vibrant convergence of politics, culture, and entertainment, showcasing the richness of Italian traditions and values.
The event featured an impressive lineup, with over 378 distinguished guests from various sectors, including politicians, intellectuals, artists, and influencers, all contributing to the dynamic atmosphere. Attendees engaged in a diverse array of discussions, with more than 500 speeches delivered throughout the week, covering pressing issues, cultural topics, and future visions for Italy and beyond.
This edition of Atreju was particularly notable, marking one of the most substantial gatherings in its history, underscoring the event’s significance as a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas in the contemporary political landscape. The festival not only celebrated the Italian identity but also fostered a sense of community among participants, making it a memorable occasion for everyone involved.
Atreju 2024 emerged as a significant gathering that transcended national political boundaries, drawing an array of distinguished figures from the global arena. Among the notable speakers was Argentine President Javier Milei, representing the Partido Libertario, who brought his unique libertarian perspective to the discussions. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Miqati, affiliated with Movimento Azm, also contributed to the dialogue, reflecting on regional issues and international relations.
The event was designed as a vibrant forum for confrontation and exchange, encouraging a rich dialogue on pressing political and social matters. With an emphasis on inclusivity, participants were invited to present a variety of viewpoints. The proceedings culminated in a keynote address by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni from Fratelli d’Italia Party (FdI), who provided insights and reflections to close the event on December 15.
The program featured a diverse array of topics tailored to engage attendees, encompassing debates centered on cultural heritage, societal traditions, and contemporary challenges faced both locally and globally. In addition to the serious discussions, Atreju 2024 infused a festive spirit with Christmas celebrations, including the ceremonial lighting of a majestic holiday tree and a living nativity scene, which captivated attendees and fostered a sense of community.
The event also welcomed prominent figures from the entertainment world, such as celebrated television host Paolo Bonolis, who participated in discussions on current issues and societal commentary. Further enriching the dialogue were several book presentations and roundtable discussions featuring representatives from the Center-left, aimed at fostering diverse perspectives. Among these guests were Giuseppe Conte from the Five Star Movement (M5S) and Carlo Calenda of the Azione party, both contributing their insights to broaden the overall discourse and stimulate collaborative debate on key political themes.
Giorgia Meloni, the founder of the Atreju event and leader of Fratelli d’Italia, emphasized the importance of Atreju as a platform for political dialogue. In her presentation of Javier Milei, Meloni remarked, “Milei is bringing a real cultural revolution to a nation that is a sister to Italy”, highlighting Italy’s interest in the future of Latin America. Under her leadership, Atreju has become a significant event in Italian politics, especially for the right, reflecting the political and cultural ambitions of conservatives.
Meloni also addressed the theme of stability as a crucial element of the current government, acknowledging the challenges the right must confront in a complex political landscape. She reassured attendees, saying, “We will not betray the trust of Italians”, and urged them to continue working toward building a stronger and more enduring political alternative.
Atreju 2024 is notable for its commitment to open discussion. Giovanni Donzelli, the head of organization for Fratelli d’Italia, stated, “Ours is a partisan celebration, but not a party; we will discuss with everyone”. This approach aims to foster constructive dialogue among different political voices, positioning Atreju as a political laboratory where a variety of ideas can be explored.
In 1998, Atreju marked a significant moment as it introduced life to a generation dedicated to overcoming prejudices and sharing dreams and ideals for a better Italy. The Prime Minister expressed pride in her group, which has honorably carried on a long-standing tradition. She extended her gratitude, especially to the young members of Gioventù Nazionale, whom she encouraged to stand firm against any media attacks designed to undermine her or the Government.
This year, Atreju featured a vibrant Christmas village, complete with Santa Claus’s house and a living Nativity scene. The event also offered entertainment through markets and street food, creating a festive atmosphere. This component is crucial for preserving Atreju’s identity as a national celebration for Italian youth on the right. Atreju 2024 not only serves as an important political demonstration but also provides an opportunity to ponder the future challenges facing the Italian right. This year’s edition marked a significant moment in the Italian political landscape, and during her concluding speech on December 15, Giorgia Meloni reiterated her vision for her leadership and the future of the right in Italy.
Stability was the key theme of her speech, highlighting a particularly unusual stability for Italy that now ensures the well-being and growth of the country. The compactness and self-denial typical of a party without personalistic motives are evident. Italy has become a model to emulate, thanks to the government and the Italian people, who for the first time in history have not only confirmed but increased their trust in Giorgia Meloni’s party two years after the beginning of her administration.
Italy is also forging closer ties with Africa through the Mattei Plan, which aims to collaborate with African nations to implement concrete initiatives that promote social and economic stability on the continent. Additionally, strengthening relationships with Albania is essential to combat illegal immigration. The landing of migrants outside European borders is a risk exploited by traffickers who aim to reach and stay within Europe. Illegal immigration is a criminal enterprise that unfolds on the open seas, and silence in the face of this issue cannot be an option. There were emotional words expressed for little Jasmine and all the victims of human traffickers. Reducing departures means fewer deaths at sea, and the Meloni government is committed to this cause.
The PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan) is a point of pride for Italy, as highlighted by President Meloni. She clearly acknowledges the former Minister for European Policies, Raffaele Fitto (FdI, ECR), who is now the new Executive Commissioner of the European Commission. The Prime Minister emphasizes the effective use of European funds, noting that Italy is setting a precedent for the entire Union.
The situation with Stellantis is delicate, and Prime Minister Meloni promises to thoroughly evaluate the matter, aiming to maintain high employment levels in Italy and safeguard the well-being of workers.
In her lengthy and passionate speech, Giorgia Meloni looks toward the future. She discusses the upcoming year, which is expected to be filled with reforms that the opposition fears. She refers to her “Premierato” as the “mother of all reforms”, which includes plans for tax reform, differentiated autonomy, and justice reform. The debate surrounding justice reform is intense, with critics suggesting it may serve as a means to control the judiciary. However, Meloni argues that its actual goal is to free the judiciary from political influence, benefiting both citizens and judges alike.
A critical reform on safety is underway, bolstered by the Caivano plan and the often-criticized DDL security law, which has drawn significant opposition from the entertainment sector. Meloni emphasizes the urgent need to enhance safety, especially with the Jubilee 2025 on the horizon. This marks a proactive shift that not only starts in Italy but also seeks to resonate throughout Europe.
Equally important is the commitment to employment, with an ambitious plan to generate nearly two million new jobs. This follows the remarkable achievement of adding one million jobs in just two years—an accomplishment reminiscent of former President Silvio Berlusconi’s “million jobs” initiative, which was met with applause. Additionally, the focus on healthcare is evident, as the center-right government has dedicated an impressive 12 billion euros more in the first two years to improve this vital sector.
The “Italian Way” championed by Meloni is marked by a series of decisive battles, with every Italian encouraged to contribute to this collective effort. On the European stage, Giorgia Meloni proudly announced her unwavering support for her friend, Poland’s former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki (PiS, ECR), as he steps into the leadership of the European Conservatives Party after her significant accomplishments in that role. This Italian Way sets a strong foundation for a bold European Way forward.