Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government will mark a historic achievement on Friday in Bari, southern Italy, as it becomes the longest-lasting postwar government in the country’s history, surpassing the previous record set by Silvio Berlusconi’s administration. To celebrate this milestone, more than 10,000 supporters are expected to gather at a rally organized by Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party at Bari’s port.

Meloni, known for her combative persona and defiance, has defied the odds in a country where political instability is common. Rising from a working-class background, she entered politics in the 1990s and has since maintained a strong political presence. Despite her fiery rhetoric, Meloni’s governing style leans towards caution and pragmatism.

Under her leadership, Meloni has managed to keep a right-wing coalition intact, leading a government that has prioritized stability and compliance with European Union regulations. While she has focused on issues like migration and traditional values, she has also made compromises, such as allowing legal entries for non-EU workers to address labor shortages.

Despite her strong position within her coalition, Meloni faces challenges from the right as the upcoming elections approach. Critics argue that while she has maintained stability, deeper structural changes to boost economic growth have not been adequately addressed.

As Meloni’s government reaches this historic milestone, the question remains whether she can translate political stability into lasting change, a decision that may ultimately be determined by voters in the upcoming election.