PM Meloni Criticises EU as Bureaucratic Giant but Weak on World Stage

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has delivered sharp criticism of the European Union. Speaking to Italian business leaders, Meloni accused Brussels of transforming into a ‘bureaucratic giant’ overly preoccupied with regulating everyday life, yet weak in confronting global challenges. She argued that the EU’s regulatory deluge and ideological approach are undermining the economic competitiveness and industrial growth of member states. Meloni delivered the speech at Confindustria’s general assembly at Rome’s La Nuvola congress centre, attended by Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Senate President Ignazio La Russa. At the event, she stressed that industry is the bedrock of Italy’s identity and strength, not merely an economic engine. ‘If Italy is known globally for its beauty, quality, and excellence, it is thanks to our companies and their workers,’ Meloni told industry leaders on Wednesday (27 May 2026). She praised Italian businesses as a symbol of national reputation that has long underpinned Italy’s international image. Yet her praise was accompanied by open criticism of EU policy direction. Meloni claimed excessive rules and bureaucracy are the main obstacles to economic initiatives in Europe, with Brussels aggressively expanding regulations across all aspects of life while failing to exert significant influence on the global stage. ‘Europe is unstoppable in multiplying rules but narrow-minded when it comes to voicing its interests on the world stage,’ Meloni said, as reported by Euro News. The remarks reinforced her long-standing political stance critical of EU power centralisation and prioritising Italy’s national interests. Meloni’s speech comes as growing unease across Europe over economic slowdowns, industrial pressures, and intensifying global competition. The criticism is seen as a signal that Italy seeks major shifts in EU policy, particularly regarding economic regulation and member states’ sovereignty.