Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington DC was a resounding endorsement of a new global conservative movement, one that she claimed is being led by leaders like herself, former US President Donald Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Argentine President Javier Milei. Speaking in a firm and assertive tone, Meloni accused the global Left of "double standards," arguing that while leaders such as Bill Clinton and Tony Blair were once celebrated for fostering a liberal international network, today, conservative figures who advocate for national sovereignty and strong governance are labeled as threats to democracy.
Meloni’s speech, delivered in a virtual address, was laced with sharp criticism of Left-leaning politicians and their approach to governance. She suggested that the political establishment and mainstream media are panicked over the growing strength of nationalist and right-wing leaders across the world. According to Meloni, the frustration of the Left has turned into hysteria because, despite their relentless attacks, people continue to elect conservative leaders who prioritize national interests, border security, economic responsibility, and cultural preservation. She insisted that these leaders are not simply politicians but rather "crusaders of freedom" who are standing up against what she termed the Left's attempts to erode traditional values and national identities.
One of the key themes of her speech was immigration, an issue that has been central to her own political career in Italy. Meloni has been a vocal critic of illegal immigration, arguing that unchecked migration threatens national security, social stability, and economic well-being. She linked her policies to those of Trump and Modi, both of whom have taken strong stances on border control in their respective countries. Meloni made it clear that she sees the fight against illegal immigration as a defining issue of her leadership, emphasizing that people across the world are waking up to the need for stronger border protections.
Turning to economic policy, Meloni praised the efforts of conservative leaders to rein in government spending, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, and promote free-market capitalism. She pointed to Argentine President Javier Milei, who has aggressively pushed for economic reforms aimed at cutting down on government waste and reducing state intervention. She also highlighted the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency in the United States as an example of how conservative leadership is working to streamline governance and eliminate unnecessary expenditures. According to Meloni, these economic strategies reflect a broader conservative commitment to self-reliance, reduced government interference, and policies that empower individuals and businesses rather than burdening them with excessive regulations and taxes.
Meloni’s speech also carried a strong message about national security and global stability. She claimed that Europe is increasingly recognizing the importance of strong defense policies and that the Left’s reluctance to take decisive action on security issues has put many nations at risk. She warned that freedom cannot be protected if leaders lack the will and the means to defend it, arguing that the conservative movement is the only political force that truly understands the need for strong military capabilities and law enforcement. To illustrate her point, Meloni referenced the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, blaming weak leadership in the United States for the chaotic withdrawal and the subsequent fall of the democratic government in Kabul. She asserted that if Trump had been in power at the time, such a disaster would never have occurred.
Beyond policy, Meloni framed the conservative movement as a broader ideological battle against "wokeism," a term she used to criticize progressive social policies and cultural changes that she claims are being forced upon societies. She spoke passionately about the importance of preserving traditional values, protecting religious freedoms, and defending free speech against what she described as an aggressive left-wing agenda. She insisted that conservatives are the true defenders of democracy because they stand for the rights of individuals, families, and communities against overreaching government policies and political correctness.
As she neared the conclusion of her speech, Meloni struck a unifying tone, calling on conservative leaders and supporters worldwide to stand together in their struggle. She emphasized that this is not just a political battle but a fight for the future of civilization itself. She assured her audience that she does not feel alone in this mission, knowing that millions worldwide share the same vision for a secure, prosperous, and free society. She reaffirmed her commitment to this cause, stating that the fight may be difficult, but the path forward is clear.
Her remarks were met with strong approval from the conservative audience, further cementing her reputation as a leading figure in the global right-wing movement. By aligning herself with figures like Trump, Modi, and Milei, Meloni positioned herself as a central player in the ideological struggle between nationalism and globalism, traditionalism and progressivism, and conservative governance versus liberal politics. As political landscapes continue to shift, her speech at CPAC signals a deepening polarization between the Left and Right, setting the stage for a prolonged and intense global political battle in the years to come.
