Introduction

Silvio Berlusconi, the three-time Prime Minister of Italy and an influential figure in global politics, passed away in June 2023, leaving behind a complex legacy marked by both controversial policies and significant political manoeuvres. His life was deeply intertwined with the evolution of modern Italy, making his story not only relevant to Italian citizens but also to observers of global political trends.

Berlusconi’s Rise to Power

Berlusconi entered the political arena in the early 1990s amid Italy’s political upheaval, which was characterised by widespread corruption scandals involving traditional parties. In 1994, he founded the Forza Italia party, which aimed to unify the centre-right and capitalise on public disillusionment. His charisma, media empire, and populist rhetoric saw him rapidly ascend to leadership, winning the Prime Minister’s office in a coalition government.

Controversies and Challenges

Throughout his career, Berlusconi faced numerous legal challenges, including corruption, tax fraud, and abuse of power. His ownership of Mediaset, a major media company, raised questions about media bias and the concentration of power. Despite these challenges, he maintained significant public support, which he cultivated through a combination of strong media presence and populist policies targeting economic prosperity, tax reductions, and social welfare reforms.

Impact on Italian Society

Berlusconi’s impact was felt far beyond politics; he transformed Italian media, culture, and society. His governance style, often described as ‘bunga bunga’, reflected a shift in political communication and entangled entertainment with politics. Even after his resignation in 2011 due to a financial crisis, his influence persisted, shaping the views of new political movements and leaders, including the rise of the right-wing League party and the populist Five Star Movement.

Conclusion

Despite his demise, Silvio Berlusconi’s legacy continues to influence Italian politics. Analysts suggest that his approach to governance has left a lasting mark, encouraging a wave of political figures who use personal branding and media manipulation as tools for political gain. As Italy approaches future elections and faces ongoing political uncertainties, Berlusconi’s strategies and ideologies remain pertinent for understanding the country’s evolving political landscape.