That obscure object of desire: A new electoral law for Italy

This article analyses the most important reasons that might make it necessary to revise the Italian electoral system. The type of proportional representation utilised in the Italian system (imperiali with the highest remainder) has allowed the fragmentation of the party system and produced a privileged situation for some parties, preventing alternation in power. The major reform proposals are reviewed and evaluated according to their partisan objectives and systemic consequences. Few proposals seem to pass this test. The issue of an electoral reform is on the political agenda, and although scepticism as to its feasibility is in order, the time for institutional and electoral reform seems to be approaching.