‘The authors have produced an intelligent, well-informed and student-friendly introduction to contemporary Italian politics which covers the sweeping changes which have taken place in recent years.’(Richard Dunphy, University of Dundee)

This textbook has been designed to provide students with an up-to-date and accessible introduction to the complexities of Italian politics of the 1990s. It will equip students with a sound understanding of the basics of Italian politics and government, and will provide clear and simple insights into the intricacies of Italian political behaviour.

The comprehensive coverage includes:

• an introduction to contemporary history, political geography and economic issues, as well as Italian political values and attitudes;
• a section on political behaviour which explores political parties, interest groups and the electoral earthquakes of the 1990s;
• a section on government institutions and their roles, including discussion of the executive, the legislature, the judiciary and sub-national government;
• analysis of Italy’s often stormy relationship with the European Union;
• an exploration of recent events, such as attempts at institutional reform.

The authors, both experienced teachers of Italian politics, emphasize throughout the book those ‘special’ problems that have plagued Italy in the 1990s, such as corruption, bureaucracy, political deadlock, terrorism and organized crime.

The Authors

Sondra Z. Koff is Professor Emerita at the State University of New York at Binghamton.
Stephen P. Koff is Professor Emeritus at Syracuse University.