Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s far-right leader, is reshaping the traditional narrative around nationalism by tapping directly into Gen Z’s cultural zeitgeist. Her communication strategy breaks away from typical rhetoric, employing social media-savvy tactics and youth-oriented symbolism to forge a new political identity that feels relatable and even trendy to younger audiences. By emphasizing themes like national pride intertwined with contemporary issues such as economic opportunity and digital innovation, Meloni’s movement projects an image that blends tradition with modernization.

Key elements of her approach include:

  • Engaging visuals and informal language: Memes, TikTok snippets, and Instagram stories underscore a casual yet deliberate outreach.
  • Influencer collaborations: Partnerships with…