Silvio Berlusconi remains one of the most polarising figures in Italian political history, remembered as much for his charisma as for the scandals that surrounded him.
As Prime Minister across three non-consecutive terms from 1994 to 2011, his legacy is debated fiercely across Italy, from political circles to café conversations.
The early promise: economic vision and modernisation
When Berlusconi first came to power in 1994, many Italians were hopeful, drawn to his promises of economic revival, tax cuts and a more business-friendly government.
His background as a media tycoon gave him credibility among Italians who wanted someone outside traditional politics to bring efficiency and a new energy to the system.
Media control and political messaging
One of the most controversial aspects of Berlusconi’s leadership was his vast media empire, which many Italians believed gave him an unfair advantage in shaping public opinion.
While some admired his ability to communicate directly with the people, others saw this control over television and newspapers as a threat to democratic balance and journalistic independence.
Public perception: charisma versus credibility
Berlusconi’s charm and populist style won him a loyal following, especially among older voters and those disillusioned with traditional parties that had been tainted by corruption scandals.
However, his frequent gaffes, personal legal issues and associations with questionable figures eroded the credibility he initially enjoyed and divided public opinion sharply.
Economic impact: promises versus outcomes
While Berlusconi promised economic reform, many Italians grew frustrated with the lack of substantial progress, particularly in tackling national debt and unemployment.
His governments did introduce some tax cuts and pension reforms, but critics argue these policies often favoured the wealthy and did little to address underlying structural problems.
Judiciary conflicts and accusations of corruption
A recurring theme in Berlusconi’s tenure was his ongoing battles with Italy’s judiciary, which he claimed was politically motivated and intent on sabotaging his leadership.
Many Italians were divided on this issue, with some believing he was unfairly targeted, while others viewed the numerous trials and investigations as signs of deep corruption and abuse of power.
Social values and culture wars
Berlusconi’s views on women, family and sexuality often clashed with more progressive segments of Italian society, drawing criticism from feminists, educators and younger voters.
However, his more conservative stance resonated with traditionalists, especially in rural areas and among older Italians who saw him as a defender of classic Italian values.
Foreign policy: a mixed legacy
Internationally, Berlusconi maintained close ties with leaders such as George W Bush and Vladimir Putin, which raised eyebrows but also kept Italy visible on the global stage.
While some Italians appreciated his boldness and diplomatic networking, others worried these relationships compromised Italy’s values and long-term interests in global affairs.
Berlusconi’s popularity across Italy’s provinces
In northern provinces like Lombardy and Veneto, Berlusconi often enjoyed stronger support due to his business roots and promises of lower taxes and deregulation.
In southern regions, the picture was more complex, with voters torn between admiration for his media presence and frustration over economic stagnation and political theatrics.
The downfall: crisis and resignation
By the time he resigned in 2011 during the eurozone debt crisis, Berlusconi’s approval ratings had fallen sharply, with Italians concerned about instability and fiscal mismanagement.
Many felt betrayed by a leader who had promised reform and instead presided over growing national debt, slow economic growth and declining international credibility.
The afterlife of Berlusconi’s political career
Even after leaving office, Berlusconi remained a key figure in Italian politics, returning to the Senate and leading his party Forza Italia with a reduced but loyal base.
To many Italians, he symbolised both the worst and the most charismatic aspects of modern politics, a reminder of what happens when media, power and personality mix.
Was Berlusconi a good Prime Minister? The Italian verdict
Italians remain deeply divided on this question, with some crediting him for modernising the political landscape and others blaming him for deepening institutional decay.
He is remembered both as a clever reformer and a flawed populist, whose time in office reflected the complexity, contradictions and challenges of contemporary Italian society.
Conclusion: a legacy written in contradiction
For many Italians, Berlusconi's story is a cautionary tale, a symbol of missed opportunities and the dangers of personality-driven leadership in fragile democracies.
Yet for others, he remains a visionary who shook up a stagnant political system and spoke directly to the people, changing Italian politics forever.
