Meloni Condemns Death Threats Against Il Tempo: A Stand for Press Freedom
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has publicly denounced a disturbing letter of death threats addressed to the newsroom of Il Tempo, allegedly signed by anarchist groups. While investigations are underway, she voiced her unwavering support and solidarity for the newspaper’s director, Tommaso Cerno, and the entire editorial staff.
Meloni denounced the threats as not only “ignoble” but as a blatant attack on both information and the freedom of expression. She emphasized that those who carry out such acts, in an attempt to intimidate journalists, will never succeed in silencing professionals who pursue their duties with courage and integrity.
This intervention comes amidst a broader context in Italy where media independence and political tensions have increasingly intersected. For Meloni, the safety of journalists and the right to report freely are sacrosanct principles. By condemning the threats in strong terms, she aimed to reaffirm the government’s commitment to protecting the press against intimidation.
Tommaso Cerno, director of Il Tempo, remains at the center of growing debates over press freedom and political influence. In past incidents, he has emerged as a determined defender of journalistic independence—even when critical of those in power.
Meloni’s response draws a clear line: threats against journalists must be met with solidarity and institutional resilience, not silence or complacency. In a time when media outlets face both physical and political pressures, the premier’s swift condemnation serves as a reminder that attacks on journalism are attacks on democracy itself.
