7 yıl önce

Populism gets boost after Italian PM states his intention to resign

Italian anti-establishment politicians rejoice as European leaders worry resignation of Matteo Renzi will embolden populists across continent.

Staff Reporter

TRT World and Agencies

Many Italians saw the referendum on constitutional reform as a vote on Renzi himself. Photo: Renzi resigns.

Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi stated his intention to resign on Monday after suffering a crushing defeat on Sunday in a referendum to change the constitution.

President Sergio Mattarella has asked him to stay in office until lawmakers can negotiate a new government and the 2017 state budget is passed on Friday.

Renzi's defeat adds to a wave of victories for populist politicians across Europe and fuels fears of future political instability in Italy.

Sarah Morice reports: