Between local empowerment and national unity
Zeta Italy News The Constitutional court declared inadmissible a proposed referendum aimed at granting greater autonomy to regions like Lombardy and Veneto. The decision highlights ongoing tensions in Italy’s regional governance. Proponents argue for local empowerment, while critics tear a threat to national unity. The debate on differentiated autonomy underscores challenges in balancing regional aspirations with constitutional constraints.
Giovanni Amoroso takes office as president of the Constitutional court
His term will end on November 13, 2026. Giovanni Amoroso, 76, is the new president of the Constitutional court, succeeding Augusto Barbera, who completed his term on December 21.
Osama al Najim, Libyan police chief, detained in Turin
Wanted by Interpol, he faces war crime charges linked to violence at Mitiga prison. Osama al Najim, head of Libya’s Judicial Police, was arrested in Turin while attending a football match. He is also accused of trafficking migrants for forced labor. His case will be reviewed by the Rome Court of Appeals.
Drug trafficking network uncovered in Catania
The operation ran from June 2023 to February 2024 and found evidence of drug sales, even around children. In Catania’s San Cristoforo district, police broke up a drug ring, arresting 18 people, including five minors. Over 100 officers were involved, and charges include drug trafficking.
Teacher attacked by a student
The incident has sparked national outrage. In a high school in Brianza, in the Italian region of Lombardy, a teacher was physically assaulted by a student during class. The attack underscores growing concerns about violence in educational settings. Authorities and educators are calling for stronger measures to ensure school safety and address the roots of such behavior.
Costa Concordia captain applies for reduced custody
Survivors criticize the request. Francesco Schettino, ex-Costa Concordia captain, seeks semi-freedom after serving half of his 16-year sentence for the 2012 shipwreck that killed 32 people. The hearing is set for March 4.
Sustainable tourism in Piedmont
A new association called “Borghi più belli d’Italia in Piemonte” promotes sustainable tourism across 19 villages in Piedmont, an Italian region at the very north. It aims to showcase local beauty and traditions. Regional leaders support the initiative as a way to boost tourism and preserve cultural heritage.
Damiano David as a special guest at Sanremo 2025
Damiano David, frontman of Måneskin, will be on the stage of Sanremo 2025’s second night, adding star power to the iconic festival. Known for his electrifying performances and global success, David’s presence is highly anticipated.
Botero exhibition closes with record numbers
The Fernando Botero retrospective in Rome concluded with unprecedented success, attracting over 500,000 visitors. Showcasing the iconic Colombian artist’s celebrated works, the exhibition highlighted his distinctive style of voluminous figures and vibrant colors.
MotoGP 2025: Bagnaia and Marquez, Ducati’s Dream Team
Ducati unveils its star duo for the 2025 MotoGP season: Francesco Bagnaia and six-time world champion Marc Marquez. Touted as a “dream team,” the pairing combines youth and experience, creating high expectations for Ducati’s dominance.
