Learnin’ the Berlusconism
January 14, 2008One of the most widely discussed issues in Italy in these days is the Electoral Reform, considered by all political parties as a real urgency in order to make the Country more governable. The most authoritative interlocutors are still Walter Veltroni, leader of the Democratic Party, which is the first centre-left political party in Italy, and Silvio Berlusconi, former Prime Minister, heading the biggest centre-right party.
Yesterday Berlusconi declared: “I will not sign reform agreement if the Gentiloni Draft on TV becomes a Law”, talking about the draft law approved by the Italian cabinet in October 2007, aimed at increasing competition in a television market dominated by Mediaset, the broadcaster owned by Berlusconi, and the state-owned RAI channels. In a few words, that would also mean: finally regulating the conflict of interest in Italy.
The question is if in a democracy, such as ours should be, the owner of 3 out of 6 of the most important TV channels, together with many important magazines and newspapers, can become a Prime Minister, as well.
Berlusconi says: “It would be an act of banditry, and this country would no longer be a democracy if politicians came to power with the intention of punishing their adversary through his companies and private property”. This is the Berlusconism: a general interest which becomes private and vice versa, a political leader to whom everything should be allowed because of his being the Man who only can save the Fatherland.
AnnaRusselli's Weblog 
Anna, this is a serious question — and one we’ve not answered completely or well here in America. But given that we fret — and I think rightfully — when some of our most treasured independent publications are bought by humongous media conglomerates, I’d guess that most of us here would agree with you.
In any case, thanks for the link to your blog — it’s well-written and interesting. I’m enjoying the glimpse across the sea(s)!
@meredith welcome, and thank you…
Hi Anna
I find it worrying that a politician can have control over such a large area of the media. I doubt if even the most naive people could believe that they would present an unbiased view.
No matter what people say we are all influenced by what we see, hear and read in the media, especially when it’s our only view of the world.
I’m amazed this situation has been allowed to happen.
Also thanks for the link to your blog, very interesting, I’ll be following with interest. :0)
Dean
(spacefrog29)
thank you dean, see you soon, than