Rome – The Italian Chamber of Deputies has recently implemented significant changes to its procedures for engaging with European Union bodies, aiming to transition from a passive recipient of EU legislation to a more active participant in its formation. These reforms, finalized on February 26, 2026, and detailed in the Gazzetta Ufficiale, are designed to strengthen the Italian Parliament’s role in shaping EU norms, according to a report from Il Dubbio.
The modifications, proposed by the President of the Chamber, impact several articles of the parliamentary regulations and introduce new ones, focusing on establishing direct connections with members of EU institutions. This shift intends to facilitate lobbying efforts within the EU framework, allowing Italian deputies to proactively influence the legislative process. While the changes are slated to take effect with the next legislature in 2027 – a move described as a gesture of institutional self-discipline to avoid altering rules mid-term – it immediately raises questions about procedural alignment with the Italian Senate.
Currently, the Senate maintains its traditional procedures, creating a procedural asymmetry. The Chamber of Deputies is now equipped with tools for internal lobbying, while the Senate’s approach remains unchanged. Experts suggest that the Senate should also modernize its procedures to ensure a more unified Italian approach to EU policy, as noted in Il Dubbio. This disparity could potentially impact Italy’s overall influence within the EU legislative process.
Key Legislative Items Under Review
As of March 12, 2026, the Italian Parliament is currently examining several proposals from the European Commission. These include:
- COM(2025)1031: A proposed directive modifying directives 2001/18/CE and 2010/53/UE regarding the marketing of genetically modified microorganisms. Examination began on March 4, 2026.
- COM(2025)1021: A proposed directive amending directive 98/58/CE and directive 2009/128/CE concerning the… (details incomplete in source). Examination began on March 4, 2026.
- COM(2025)1020: A proposed regulation amending regulation (EU) No 528/2012 regarding the extension of certain periods of data protection. Examination began on March 4, 2026.
These proposals are among the latest legislative items under scrutiny by the Italian Parliament, as detailed on the Europa website of the Chamber of Deputies. The website also provides a calendar of weekly activities related to EU matters and archives of past parliamentary work in the EU sphere.
Upcoming EU Council Meeting and Dossiers
The European Council is scheduled to convene in Brussels on March 19-20, 2026. Parliamentary dossiers currently under preparation include an analysis of the proposals from the European Commission concerning the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034, and elements for verifying the principle of subsidiarity related to the Omnibus environment package. The European Parliament Liaison Office in Rome also highlighted the importance of the EU’s long-term budget in investing in areas like competitiveness and agriculture, as stated on their website.
Increased Collaboration with European Parliament
The move towards greater engagement comes as the European Parliament seeks to strengthen its ties with national parliaments across the EU. The European Parliament Liaison Office (EPLO) in Rome and Milan serves as a key point of contact between EU citizens, elected representatives, and the Parliament itself. The EPLO provides information, organizes seminars for journalists, and disseminates press releases related to parliamentary activities, according to information available on the European Parliament’s Rome office website. On March 6, 2026, the EPLO hosted a pre-plenary briefing, and has been actively promoting initiatives related to International Women’s Day and the situation in Ukraine.
The reforms at the Italian Chamber of Deputies represent a significant step towards a more proactive Italian role in EU policymaking. The coming months will be crucial in observing how these changes translate into practical influence and whether the Senate will follow suit, creating a more unified and effective Italian voice within the European Union.
What impact will these changes have on Italy’s ability to shape EU policy? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
