Vannacci's National Future rise stirs unease in Calabria

The Guardian has published an editorial warning that the early success of Roberto Vannacci's new far-right party, National Future, sends an ominous signal as extreme politics become normalised in Italy. The paper notes that Vannacci, a serving Italian general, published a far-right tract in 2023 titled The World Turned Upside Down, which prompted a disciplinary inquiry.

The editorial, published Thursday, frames Vannacci's rise as part of a broader trend in which extreme political positions are becoming more acceptable in mainstream Italian discourse. It describes the general as a 'rogue' figure whose appeal appears to be growing despite, or perhaps because of, his controversial views.

From Calabria, the development carries particular weight. This region has long been a testing ground for national political movements, and the South's economic struggles often fuel support for populist and nationalist platforms. The Guardian's analysis suggests that Vannacci's message may resonate where frustration with traditional politics runs deep.