Roberto Saviano, the renowned Italian anti-mafia author and human rights advocate, faced a conviction for libel on Thursday after he referred to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a “bastard” due to her strong stance on immigration. A Rome court imposed a symbolic fine of 1,000 euros ($1,055) on Saviano, which is part of a suspended sentence, meaning he won’t need to pay it immediately. His defense lawyer, Antonio Nobile, also indicated that they intend to appeal the guilty verdict.
Saviano, aged 44, and his supporters framed this case as a crucial test of freedom of expression in Italy, where defamation can lead to sentences of up to three years in prison, although it generally results in fines. The prosecution had sought a 10,000-euro penalty, while Meloni had demanded 50,000 euros in damages.
The dispute began in 2020 when Saviano criticized both Meloni and fellow right-wing leader Matteo Salvini for their strong criticisms of migrant rescue-charity vessels during a TV interview. Saviano’s remarks included calling them “bastards” in response to their positions on NGO-operated sea rescues. His comments followed the tragic death of a six-month-old baby from Guinea during a sea rescue by the Spanish NGO Open Arms.
In the past, Meloni labeled Saviano a “serial hater” and initiated legal action against him when she was in opposition. Last year, she declined requests to drop the charges, stating that judges could make impartial decisions even in cases involving the prime minister. Saviano, who has been living under 24-hour police protection since his 2006 book “Gomorrah,” which exposed the Naples mafia and was adapted into a film and TV series, has a history of contentious interactions with right-wing politicians.
Saviano is also facing another libel case brought against him by Matteo Salvini, related to a separate incident from the 2020 TV interview. However, he did win a civil defamation case against Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano in May.
