Italy declares state of emergency for drought-stricken north
NBCNov 25, 2022
The Facts
Italy's cabinet has approved a state of emergency declaration for five drought-stricken regions in the north of the country. The government allocated €36.5M euros to the Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Piedmont, and Veneto regions.
These regions have been crippled by the worst drought to impact the area in 70 years, which has been exacerbated by an early-season heatwave and diminished rainfall.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The disasters in northern Italy show that climate change requires a drastic national response that may be too much for the Italian government to handle. The country is one of the most indebted in the world and is already battling the economic impact of inflation and Russia's war against Ukraine. Adding a climate emergency on top of debt woes is straining Italy's institutions to the brink.
Pro-establishment narrative
The Italian government is boldly taking the lead and standing firm on actions to combat climate change. The nation even "greened" its constitution to protect the environment and its biodiversity. Rome's inclusive, strong approach is well renowned for safeguarding its future or generations to come.
