Stella Polare
Astra Bocconi
VACANZEBOCCONIANE2025
TrumpandEurope:a fragileallianceamid protectionismand geopoliticalchallenges
The re-election of Donald Trump highlights the uncertain future of transatlantic relations: from NATO to the economy, Europe is compelled to reinvent itself.
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Italy’sNuclear Troubles
Is there any room for an Italian nuclear Renaissance?
In recent years, Italy has faced a return to intense internal discussion regarding a possible revival of its atomic energy industry following European legislation aimed at tackling climate change and the energy crisis.
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Each year, students from Bocconi University eagerly wait for one of the most exciting and exclusive winter events on the academic calendar—Vacanze Bocconiane. Organized by Astra Bocconi, this ski trip is a blend of adventure, relax and entertainment, offering a perfect winter escape for both skiing enthusiasts and those simply looking to unwind in a scenic alpine setting.
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ExchangeReview
Do not miss the exchange reviews of the older students! You may find some useful information about exchange programs that could help you in your decision
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What’s the game you will never forget? Or that one memory with the team that you will carry with you forever?
I can’t think about the tournament we had in Barcelona in 2022 without having the biggest smile on my face. The best four days of my university years. Just imagine playing football all day, then exploring one of the most beautiful cities in the world with your amazing team, then going out at night and not spending a single minute without laughing… And I think the best thing about it is that if you asked any other girl who was there, they would give you the same answer. Because the bond we felt was so strong that it truly touched all of us, very deeply and still to this day in an incredibly emotional way. To me, that feels like perfection. That’s all I can say.
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AGeopolitical RealityCheck
As the climate crisis intensifies, nations worldwide have set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy, and embrace sustainable development. Yet, the path to achieving these goals is anything but straightforward.
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Georgia has been experiencing a sharp political polarization in recent years. This will have a significant impact on the democratic development and international direction of the country. Political confrontation has become especially acute after the 2024 parliamentary elections, when the ruling party, Georgian Dream, and its opponents took sharply opposing positions from each other.
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From the 4th of February the St. Ferdinand rectory, the complex of buildings formed by the church and the structure immediately behind it in piazza Sraffa 6, opened to the students new spaces for studying, eating and relaxing.
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Astra Bocconi
VACANZEBOCCONIANE2025:Theultimateskiexperienceby AstraBocconi
An Unforgettable Journey
The moment we arrived at the ski resort, the excitement was palpable. Stepping off the bus, we were greeted by crisp mountain air and a stunning snow-covered landscape Check-in would have to wait, though, as we headed straight to our first après-ski party
It was held in an open-air field covered in snow, with an incredible panoramic view of the mountains Music blasted, drinks flowed, and everyone danced in their ski boots, kicking off the weekend in the most exhilarating way possible Only after this incredible introduction to Vacanze Bocconiane did we finally make our way to the hotel, where we settled into our rooms, ready to party all night long
The following morning, we woke up to clear blue skies and fresh powder on the slopes. The skiers among us wasted no time gearing up and hitting the mountain, carving through the snow with sheer excitement. Beginners had the chance to take lessons with expert instructors, while more advanced skiers raced down the slopes with impressive agility Those who weren’t skiing opted for more relaxing activities at the QC Terme Dolomiti resort By the afternoon, it was time for another legendary après-ski Once again, we found ourselves in that breathtaking open-air field, where the combination of lively music, flowing drinks, and the dramatic mountain backdrop created an unforgettable atmosphere The energy was contagious, and the party felt like something straight out of a dream.
The next day was filled with even more excitement. Skiers enjoyed a full day on the mountains of Badia, pushing themselves to take on new slopes As evening approached, anticipation for the themed party grew When night fell, it was time to party once again The night was a blur of laughter, music, and unforgettable moments shared with friends both old and new
On our final morning, a bittersweet feeling hung in the air There was no skiing this time just a slow, relaxed breakfast where we reminisced about the highlights of the trip. When it was finally time to leave, we boarded the buses with tired legs but full hearts, knowing we had just lived through an experience that would stay with us forever , g g y p y enough to be part of it, this past weekend was more than just a ski trip; it was a celebration of adventure, friendship, and the spirit of Bocconi And as we return to our daily routines, one thing is certain: we’ll be counting down the days until the next edition
Federica Leaci
Astra Bocconi
TrumpandEurope:afragileallianceamidprotectionismand geopoliticalchallenges
Donald Trump’s return to the White House has brought uncertainty to the future of transatlantic relations, painting a complex picture of challenges, tensions, and potential opportunities. His pungent rhetoric predicts a future relationship destined to swing between cooperation and confrontation
During his campaign, Trump did not hold back and repeatedly accused the EU of engaging in unfair trade practices. During his speech at the prestigious Economic Club of Chicago, he prompted punitive tariffs of up to 2000% on European products, once again underlining his strong determination on the protection of domestic industries
“If I’m leading this country as president, I will impose tariffs of 100, 200, or even 2,000% They won’t sell a single car in the United States because we will not destroy our country”, Trump declared in an interview reported by the International Business Times He added that tariffs are “protection for the companies we have here and those that are coming,” emphasizing his goal of pressuring multinationals to build factories within the United States
According to the newly elected president, this strategy should be implemented in order to beat the competition from foreign countries like Mexico, which is attracting investments for automotive manufacturing plants
“China is building enormous factories in Mexico to sell cars to the U S with all the advantages and none of the disadvantages”, he noted. However, these tariff policies have drawn criticism: economic experts, including John Micklethwait, Editor-in-Chief of Bloomberg News and
moderator of the interview during which Trump made that statement, have remarked that the benefits of such measures would be limited compared to their costs
This approach, analyzed in detail by the Financial Times, has raised global concerns, particularly in the automotive sector A recent article highlighted how automakers such as GM, Ford, and Stellantis could suffer significant impacts from 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada According to the British publication, these tariffs risk disrupting global supply chains, considering that a greater portion of vehicles sold in the U S are imported from these countries
But the repercussions extend further The Financial Times shed light on Germany’s fears about Trump’s tariffs threat, which could negatively affect German exports, a pillar of the country’s economic fabric. These protectionist policies could potentially triggering a new phase of trade tensions, resulting in destabilizing effects on the global economy
On the security front, NATO has once again taken center stage, but not for the right reasons Trump has declared his will to “fundamentally reassess the alliance”, sparking anxiety among European partners For a continent that has relied on American military expenditure and protection for decades, these words ring as an unpleasant and unwanted wake-up call
In this already uncertain context, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s proposal to place Ukrainian territories under NATO protection - modeled on Germany’s suggestion of partial membership that excludes occupied territories - has generated significant tensions The Kremlin has labeled it an “unacceptable provocation”, deeming it a dangerous escalation The plan risks worsening relations with Moscow and deepening internal divisions within NATO, already strained by the U S ’ s ambiguous stance under Trump. Should the U.S. disengage further, Ukraine would find itself even more vulnerable
Trade ministers have initiated discussions to develop defensive measures in order to respond to U S protectionist policies Meanwhile, French President Macron has renewed his call for a more autonomous Europe, capable of facing future challenges and issues independently His vision of a more united and
Astra Bocconi
TrumpandEurope:afragileallianceamidprotectionismand geopoliticalchallenges
cohesive continent is not only a response to Trump’s policies but also a strong signal to international partners and enemy countries A more robust Europe would also be a critical ally for Ukraine, especially if Zelensky’s strategy and intentions will face obstacles or indifference from the newly elected government in Washington
The U S president’s announced policies could deeply shake the European economy Tariffs levied on sectors of critical strategic importance such as automotive and agriculture threaten to undermine exports, and a weakened NATO would force the European Union to reorganize its defense strategies, jeopardizing the feasibility of these projects and hypothetically unsettling national budgets
But in the midst of all this, we can see glimpses of opportunity Donald Trump’s reelection could present a chance for the European Union to consolidate its compactness and redefine its role and image on the world stage. A stronger European Union would be a more credible partner and a key player in ensuring international stability.
Faced with a more unpredictable America and an increasingly aggressive Russia, Europe must prove it is ready to respond with pragmatism and strategic vision. The challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities to forge a new global equilibrium where Ukraine’s fate is intertwined with the future of transatlantic relations.
Sacha Berrettini
Astra Bocconi
Rectory: New study places, a church and... a pellican
The project included the renovation of the latter, giving it a small garden, new study places, restrooms, a small kitchen provided with microwaves in the inferior floor and a relaxing area with comfortable sofas in the upper one. Everything in a well-lit environment The purpose was to create a place in which students can spend dead time between lessons, eating or chit-chatting with their friends but also deepen their hobbies and free-time activities flanking them to their university career To sum up a perfect space where to find or create a sense of community, idea that has actually been at the origin of the construction of the rectory itself
We all passed the rectory, in fact, hundreds of times on our way to Velodromo, but have you ever stopped for a moment to think about what it is doing a church in the middle of the campus? Well, actually its history it’s interwined to that one of the university more than you might think Already from the name “rectory” it is possible to understand that we are not talking about a common church, it is obviously at Milan diocese disposal but it is formally owned by the university. The complex in fact was built in 1961 and donate to it in honor of its founder, Ferdinando Bocconi, according to the will of Donna Javotte, his daughter-in law Her idea was exactly to create a space which could have been also used by all the Bocconi community
Fun fact: it’s in the church where you can find one of the most notorious symbols of the university, the pelican. Javotte chose to put on the tabernacle a picture in which the bird, hurting himself, tries to extinguish a fire with his own blood to protect his progeny from the flames The image would represent the paternal love demonstrated by Ferdinando Bocconi for his son died in battle and for whom he founded the university The pelican became one of the family symbols and its image has been used many times by the the university, including as logo of the sport teams
Today the rectory carries on its function organizing many other activities too For students of different religions it has been created a room where they can meet to pray together while for whoever wants to partecipate, collections of food and medicines are organized periodically to distribute to homeless or needy people
Astra Bocconi
Climate Goals Today: A Geopolitical Reality Check
As the climate crisis intensifies, nations worldwide have set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy, and embrace sustainable development Yet, the path to achieving these goals is anything but straightforward The interplay between climate ambitions and harsh geopolitical realities has created a complex web of challenges where energy security, economic dependencies, and international power dynamics often collide with environmental commitments Europe’s journey offers a credible lens through which to explore these issues, particularly as the region grapples with the fallout of the Ukraine war and its energy implications.
Europe’s Diplomatic Approach to ClimateGeopolitical Interplay
The European Union has long positioned itself as a global leader in climate policy, championing the Paris Agreement and implementing ambitious initiatives like the European Green Deal and the Fit for 55 package These policies aim to cut emissions, promote renewables, and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 However, these goals are pursued in a world increasingly shaped by political fragmentation, where energy security and economic competitiveness frequently outweigh environmental concerns.
One of the region’s defining challenges, its reliance on external energy sources, particularly Russia, has exposed Europe’s vulnerabilities that complicate its climate goals and become a liability after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Diplomacy has become Europe’s key tool in addressing these challenges, as it seeks to forge partnerships with alternative suppliers that balance energy security with environmental sustainability As a response, the EU launched REPowerEU, a strategy to rapidly diversify energy imports and accelerate the shift to renewables Deals with countries like Norway and Algeria have provided alternative sources of natural gas, while increased LNG imports from the United States have helped bridge short-term supply gaps
One of the most significant steps in this direction has been the EU's REPowerEU initiative, a strategy to rapidly diversify energy imports and accelerate the shift to renewables. The EU has engaged with countries like Norway, Algeria, and the United States to secure alternative energy supplies, displaying the critical role of diplomacy in reshaping energy landscapes For instance, the U S has emerged as a vital supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG), helping to stabilize Europe’s energy markets during a period of unprecedented volatility.
However, Europe’s reliance on external partners comes with its own set of complications For instance, the U S supplies LNG at a higher cost than Russian gas, adding financial strain to European economies
Similarly, the EU's dependence on China for critical components like solar panels and rare earth materials illustrates the geopolitical tensions embedded in its climate strategy As China dominates the global solar panel market, controlling over 80% of the world's solar panel manufacturing, EU policymakers must balance their ambitious climate policies with the risks of supply chain vulnerabilities. These dependencies not only undermine Europe’s push for strategic autonomy but also highlight the broader challenges of decoupling environmental policies from global trade and political rivalries
Germany: A Case Study in Geopolitics and Energy Policy
Germany, as Europe’s largest economy and a key driver of its climate agenda, exemplifies the intricate balancing act required in today’s geopolitical landscape For years, Germany’s energy policy was built on a close partnership with Russia, which supplied a significant portion of its natural gas This relationship allowed Germany to maintain low energy costs and fuel its industrial growth while gradually transitioning to renewables. However, the war in Ukraine upended this arrangement, forcing Germany to confront the risks of overdependence on a single supplier
The immediate aftermath of the crisis saw Germany scrambling to secure alternative energy sources. Emergency measures included reopening coal-fired power plants and fast-tracking LNG infrastructures
Astra Bocconi
Climate Goals Today: A Geopolitical Reality Check
However, this transition has not been without setbacks
These short-term solutions have drawn criticism for contradicting the country’s climate commitments, but they also underscore the difficult trade-offs required in times of geopolitical upheaval Despite these compromises, Germany has remained committed to its long-term sustainability goals Investments in wind and solar power have accelerated, and the government has set ambitious targets to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix. Germany’s approach serves as a microcosm of world nations’ broader struggle: reconciling immediate energy needs with the imperatives of climate action It also underlines the importance of diversifying energy sources and building resilient supply chains to mitigate future risks
Europe’s Energy Diversification Efforts
While Germany’s story illustrates a single nation’s response, the EU’s response to the energy crisis has been multifaceted, involving both immediate actions and long-term strategies In the short term, Europe has increased imports of LNG from allies like the United States and Qatar, while also boosting domestic energy production where possible In the long term, the EU has committed to scaling up renewable energy investments and enhancing energy efficiency through initiatives
However, the EU’s collective efforts reveal significant disparities among member states. Wealthier nations like Germany and France have made strides in renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency, while smaller or economically weaker states face greater challenges in implementing similar measures This uneven progress threatens to create fissures within the EU, undermining the bloc’s collective climate goals
Moreover, Europe’s dependence on external suppliers, particularly for renewable energy components, shows a critical weakness in its energy diversification strategy. China’s dominance in the solar panel market and its control over rare earth minerals place Europe in a precarious position. Efforts to develop domestic manufacturing capabilities have been slow, and attempts to establish alternative trade partnerships often clash with geopolitical tensions
Navigating Geopolitical Tensions: A Global Pattern of Trade-offs
The interplay between climate goals and geopolitics is not unique to Europe Around the globe, countries face similar dilemmas as they navigate the energy transition. The United States, for instance, has pursued aggressive climate policies under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) The IRA is one of the most comprehensive climate-focused legislation in U S history, allocating over $369 billion to clean energy investments, tax credits, and initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40% by 2030. However, the IRA’s emphasis on promoting domestic clean energy industries has sparked international concerns Key provisions, such as subsidies for electric vehicle (EV) production and manufacturing tax incentives, favor U S -based companies and products, often at the expense of foreign manufacturers
This approach, while prioritizing domestic industries and job creation, has been criticized for undermining international cooperation
China presents a contrasting yet equally complex case – while positioning itself as a leader in renewable technology, China continues to expand coal production to meet its growing energy demands China is a dominant player in the renewable energy sector, leading the world in the production of solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles The country has aggressively scaled up investments in clean energy technologies, with renewable energy capacity accounting for nearly half of its total installed power generation in recent years However, China’s climate leadership is undermined by its reliance on coal, the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel
Astra Bocconi
Climate Goals Today: A Geopolitical Reality Check
In 2022 alone, China approved the construction of more than 100 gigawatts of new coal-fired power plants, a pace that far exceeds the rest of the world combined. This reliance stems from China’s need to meet its surging energy demands, driven by rapid industrialization and urbanization. China’s dual role complicates international climate diplomacy. While it has pledged to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, its continued investment in coal raises doubts about its commitment
Diplomacy plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges of the climate-geopolitical connection However, successful climate diplomacy requires more than agreements on emissions targets; it demands concrete actions to build resilient supply chains, equitable trade practices, and investments in green technology Without these measures, the world risks exacerbating existing inequalities and divisions.
Lessons for the Future: A Unified but Pragmatic Vision
The journey to achieving global climate goals is a shared one, yet it requires navigating a fractured geopolitical landscape Europe’s journey underscores the importance of balancing short-term pragmatism with long-term ambition Initiatives like REPowerEU and Germany’s renewable energy push demonstrate that even in times of crisis, progress is possible with coordinated action and strategic investments
However, the broader lesson is clear: climate action cannot succeed in isolation from the realities of global politics The interplay between climate goals and geopolitics is likely to become even more complex in the coming years As nations strive to meet their climate commitments, they will need to navigate a rapidly changing global landscape characterized by shifting alliances, emerging technologies, and increasing competition for resources
Diplomacy, innovation, and resilience will be key to overcoming these challenges For Europe, and indeed the world, the path forward involves embracing both the urgency of the climate crisis and the complexities of today’s geopolitical order. Only by aligning environmental goals with economic and strategic priorities can we hope to build a future that is both sustainable and secure
Arman Marzhan
Astra Bocconi Georgia
Georgia has been experiencing a sharp political polarization in recent years This will have a significant impact on the democratic development and international direction of the country. Political confrontation has become especially acute after the 2024 parliamentary elections, when the ruling party, Georgian Dream, and its
The authoritarian moves in the country paid off in 2012 with a change of government The winner of the election was the Georgian Dream party, founded by billionaire businessman Bidzina Ivanishvili. Despite full political control, Ivanishvili soon left the post of Prime Minister, although he remained involved in important decisions. In general, he preferred to maintain a low profile and control in shadow. Foreign policy became more conciliatory towards Russia, although Georgia gained a free trade agreement with the European Union and a visa-free regime between 2012 and 2022
Georgian Dream has caught up with and prosecuted political opponents, including former Tbilisi mayor, Prime Minister and President Saakashvili Over time, pro-Western leaders, including Giorgi Kvirikashvili, Giorgi Gakharia, Giorgi Margvelashvili, and Salome Zurabishvili, have left the party, indicating an internal crisis within the party.
Following the 2020 parliamentary elections, the opposition boycotted parliament for six months in protest over allegations of election fraud In the spring of 2021, following mediation efforts by European Council President Charles Michel, the parties agreed on some initial steps towards resuming cooperation, including a commitment to comprehensive reforms of electoral law and the justice system However, in July 2021, the ruling party withdrew from Charles Michel’s agreement, leading to protracted political polarization between the ruling and opposition parties.
The situation changed dramatically after Russia invaded Ukraine, with the centralist stance no longer held, and the Georgian Dream(GD) came under great pressure GD began making provocative statements GD believe that there was a Global War Party(GWP) trying to drag Georgia into the war in Ukraine; all other Georgian political parties are controlled by the Global War Party (GWP) The GWP also influences NATO, the EU, and the Biden administration
Astra Bocconi
Georgia
In addition to the alarming rhetoric, GD tried to introduce a Foreign Agents Law in 2023 GD argued that the law would only force NGOs to register as "foreign agents" if they received a certain share of their income from foreign sources. In effect, the law would allow GD to shut down any NGO they wanted to investigate. In 2023, there was a huge protest against it, which forced the GD to withdraw the law and promise not to introduce it again This was a big victory for the pro-EU team in the country Georgia became a candidate country for EU membership at the end of 2023
In just a few months, the GD reintroduced the law on foreign agents This was followed by even larger protests than the previous time, with up to 150000 Georgians taking part in the protest in May. Unfortunately, the government decided to protect the law and did everything it could to do so. They brutally dispersed the demonstrations with water cannons and tear gas, and arrested and beat protesters Despite long-standing mass protests and international criticism, they passed this law
Latest events
The official results of the October 2024 parliamentary elections triggered a major political crisis in the country, fueled by allegations of electoral fraud and irregularities
The ruling Georgian Dream party won a majority of seats in parliament (53 93%, securing 89 out of 150 mandates), a result that the opposition denied, while protesters claimed the elections were rigged This led to mass protests that continued for several months The European Union and its member states, as well as the United States, demanded an investigation into the electoral irregularities
On election day, Edison Research exit polls showed GD receiving only 41% of the vote, indicating a likely loss. Edison Research has historically been accurate in Georgian exit polls, with a margin of error of only 2-3% over the past 12 years of elections HarrisX reported a similar results
The opposition highlighted several main fraud schemes: (1) taking ID cards from voters (2) having their supporters vote in different places with different IDs (3) voting on behalf of people who were not in the country (4)Most significantly, violating the secrecy of the vote This year, a new voting system was introduced in which voters had to color their ballots and slide them into a counting machine It turned out that the ballots were leaking and it was easy to figure out who a particular voter had voted for The opposition parties with the most supporters were listed at the beginning of the ballot, while the Georgian Dream was at the end, meaning that by looking at where the ballot was leaking, it was clear whether the person voted for the opposition parties or the Georgian Dream The Tetritskaro Regional Court ruled that the elections were unconstitutional because the principle of secrecy was violated However, the Court of Appeal overturned this decision, as it always does if something happens against the governing party
Many irregularities were reported during the election process, including intimidation and vote-buying in villages, leading to the Georgian Dream party securing over 90% of the vote in these areas The European Union Ambassador to Georgia, Pavel Herchinsky, stated that international observers assessed the elections as neither free nor fair The European Commission and its High Representative Josep Borrell have called on the Georgian authorities to investigate the violations swiftly and transparently
One of the most significant announcements came on 28 November, when Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced that his government would suspend EU accession negotiations until 2028 This announcement has fuelled political tensions, as the EU and the European Parliament have called on the Georgian authorities to launch an investigation and provide an objective assessment of the allegations At the same time, Russia expressed its support for the Georgian government’s decision.
Astra Bocconi
Georgia
In parallel, protests and another radical wave erupted when the parliament approved the composition of Irakli Kobakhidze’s government on 28 November On the same day, the European Parliament adopted a resolution calling for new elections in Georgia under international supervision Kobakhidze declared at a press conference that the EU had become a “blackmail tool” for Georgia After the EU criticized his decisions, Kobakhidze and his party reaffirmed their position that Georgia would continue to develop independently.
As the protest movement intensified, the police used force extensively against demonstrators Amnesty International condemned the Georgian government’s approach, saying it would continue to use violence against dissent Although the government insisted that this was only "systemic violence" by protesters, demonstrators and journalists made numerous statements about police brutality
As the protests persisted, new legal and political controversies also erupted. In December 2024, the Georgian parliament elected Mikheil Kavelashvili as president, further intensifying the confrontation between the ruling party and the opposition This sparked a new wave of protests and a mass street movement that continued for several months Many people began to protest, rejecting the legitimacy of the current government and calling for new elections
On December 18, 2024, the Public Defender of Georgia reported that its representatives had visited 327 detainees, of whom 225 reported ill-treatment, and 157 showed signs of physical injuries. Representatives of Transparency International Georgia, the European Orbit of Georgia, and the Rule of Law Center reported that Georgian Dream “planned the systematic torture of peaceful demonstrators.” They reported that detainees were “beaten in the face, head, eyeballs, ribs, [and] kidneys” and that security forces robbed detainees of their personal belongings
In December 2024, Shaishmelashvili, the former head of the Special Tasks Department, stated in an interview that police violence was systematic and carried out on the orders of Bidzina Ivanishvili and Zviad Kharazishvili (head of the Special Tasks Department). He said that no investigation was underway or planned. Protests continued after the elections, with hundreds of protesters arrested, beaten, or tortured by police and violent groups affiliated with the ruling party, who also attacked journalists As of December 13, 2024, Amnesty International reported that 300 of the 460 detainees had been tortured or otherwise ill-treated 80 people were hospitalized with serious injuries, including broken bones and concussions Amnesty described the police and the justice system as an instrument of institutionalized repression that sought to suppress peaceful opposition
As of December 19, 2024, 70 journalists had been injured in the protests. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) believes that the police violence was systematic and coordinated with “masked groups. ” According to RSF, the investigation “offers little hope of accountability ”
On December 24, Human Rights Watch said that the police violence was “widespread and clearly punitive ” Among the victims were Avtandil Kuchava, who lost consciousness twice after being hit in the head by police, and poet Zviad Ratiani, who was repeatedly beaten by police Journalist Aleksandre Keshelashvili, who suffered a concussion and a broken nose, was injured on November 29.
The disputed parliamentary session voted to suspend the mandates of 49 opposition MPs, leaving the parliament with 101 members The opposition has declared the October 26, 2024 elections fraudulent, has refused to serve in the legislature, and is demanding new elections In contrast three member switched to the “opposition” They did the same thing last year when some members of GD left the party to form a new party, People's Power The purpose of this move was to make a negative statements as a new party rather than as a representative of GD The Georgian Dream party is announcing new laws that will restrict the activities of the media and NGOs. The ruling party leader, Mamuka Mdinaradze, has said that it plans to define “media objectivity” and limit foreign funding. The Russian-style “agent law” adopted in 2023 was re-adopted in 2024 with a changed name, and now an even stricter version is being initiated
Astra Bocconi
Georgia
The ruling party is banning the mandatory participation of NGOs in the legislative process and the receipt of foreign funding for public sector employees, including for training and visits. It is also planned to tighten migration and juvenile legislation and increase ministerial discretion in the appointment of personnel in the public sector.
On February 5, the controversial parliament adopted a draft law on the first reading that restricts freedom of protest and expression The amendments provide for a sharp increase in fines and administrative detention, a ban on “insulting” public figures, additional restrictions on holding rallies, and the criminalization of insulting law enforcement officers
The new draft laws impose strict restrictions on holding assemblies and demonstrations. Fines and prison terms are increasing, and protests are banned in public spaces, on highways, near judges' homes, and near state institutions The state is increasingly restricting protests, but the wave of resistance continues
The impact on society and institutions
In early December, opposition media outlets described the resignations of government officials as a "systemic collapse 49 police officers, including Shaishmelashvili and the head of the department responsible for dispersing protests, resigned In addition, on December 31, several Central Election Commission employees were dismissed for criticizing the Georgian Dream, and on January 3, 2025, OC Media described the dismissal process as a "purge of public sector employees critical of the government " Members of the National Bank of Georgia stated that the suspension of EU accession negotiations was unconstitutional Doctors and business organizations protested the government’s decision, saying it jeopardizes its European path
The Georgian Dream was formed in 2012 from a liberal coalition, but it has now become the representative of an authoritarian political force, where state institutions no longer reflect the interests of citizens
On 28 November 2024, the European Parliament, by 444 votes to 72, with 82 abstentions, declared that it would not recognize the October parliamentary elections The foreign ministers of the Weimar Triangle (France, Germany, Poland) told the European Parliament that the election violations and violence against protesters, journalists and opposition politicians were a democratic setback. They announced that the EU would end visa-free travel for Georgian officials.
On January 13, 2025, Michael Roth, the head of the German Bundestag's foreign affairs committee, took part in a protest in Tbilisi and declared that new elections were necessary The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kalas, condemned the government's actions and criticized the brutal crackdown on peaceful protesters, journalists, and politicians
Brussels suspends visa-free travel for Georgian diplomats and officials. US Congress imposes sanctions under the MEGOBARI Act. Senator Wicker says the Georgian Dream could usurp power. French President Macron condemns police violence
OSCE launches Vienna Mechanism procedure Council of Europe calls for new elections, but Georgian Dream rejects Ukraine, the US, UK, and Baltic states impose sanctions on senior Georgian officials
Astra Bocconi
Georgia
Scenario One: Belarusization of Georgia
To ensure that the presidency is held by someone who lacks the resources or experience to act as a strong, independent player, GD elected Mikheil Kavelashvili- a former professional footballer with neither knowledge nor connections. Georgian Dream is subordinating all state institutions and tightening its grip on the state. The next step is to fully implement the so-called “Russian law” to crack down on civil society organizations, free media, and any other critical voices.
To purge state institutions of those who might criticize government policies, the ruling party will double down on its proposed changes to public sector regulations to make it easier to dismiss officials and influence all sectors and the distribution of power
Possible Scenarios
Georgian politics is on a knife’s edge The stakes are particularly high, not only for the fate of the winners and losers, but also for the future of the country
Until 2024, the Georgian government enjoyed the approval of a significant part of the population, but it has lost support Important groups, such as journalists and civil servants in the Ministry of Defense, the National Bank, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have begun to “speak truth to power ” and speak out against government repression. Most importantly, business associations, such as the American Chamber of Commerce and the Free Business Online Platform, which unites more than 1,800 Georgian companies, have protested government measures that are harmful to business The leaders of the Georgian Dream, who face threats to their fate and freedom and are unable to govern without the cooperation of their own civil servants, could, in some scenarios, GD may move to gradual but systematic repression, such as fines, imprisonment, censorship, and the closure of media outlets This process has already begun However, it poses a dilemma: more repression will lead to greater resistance, greater isolation of the government at home and abroad This may work for a while, but it will not renew the government, restore partnerships with Western trading partners, or stabilize the political system.
Georgia will become yet another authoritarian post-Soviet state, serving as a shadow economy and a gray zone for circumventing sanctions.
Despite the crackdown, protests are likely to continue, leading to increased Russian involvement and potentially direct support through military personnel. This option has already been suggested by some Russian officials and has been successfully tested in Kazakhstan in 2022, and a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Georgia is likely to see a brain drain, economic shocks, and dependence on Russia. This is already happening, as the number of migrants has increased dramatically, and the country is overly dependent on Russian goods.
Scenario Two: Status quo Remains
In this scenario, the Georgian Dream does not give up its single-party grip on power and still manages to achieve the promised “reset” of relations with the West The Trump administration’s isolationist foreign policy and concerns about China allow the GD to make the status quo acceptable to the West However, this also implies some concessions from the ruling party, such as a revision of the “Foreign Agents Law”
This scenario is not sustainable, as it implies constant protests and public discontent Georgia has already seen the resignation of some officials and ambassadors in the wake of recent developments, and this trend is likely to increase as the political crisis deepens Continued political instability could ultimately lead to early parliamentary elections (scenario 3) or a turn toward authoritarianism (scenario 1)
Scenario Three: Rose Revolution 2.0
Astra Bocconi Georgia
In this third scenario, the ongoing internal and external pressure begins to bear fruit. The Georgian Dream is forced to find a political way out of the confrontation with civil society. Similar to what happened during the Rose Revolution in 2003, the judiciary will annul the election results. Under the close supervision of a new election administration and Western partners, new parliamentary elections will be held in early spring 2025 Most likely, the Georgian Dream will survive as a viable political force, but the opposition parties will manage to form a coalition government Georgia will experience a reform overload
A coalition government (something modern Georgia has no experience with) would strengthen democratization and liberalization policies, renew the Associated Trio (Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine), reopen EU membership negotiations, and deepen cooperation with NATO.
Conclusion
Domestic, public pressure to return Georgia to a democratic path is vital. A coalition government would restore checks and balances and depoliticize public institutions. To prevent Georgia from becoming another failed state that fell victim to the authoritarian Parisian regime, Western partners need to engage more actively with civil society and other democratic actors in Georgia What happens in the rest of the world will have a major impact on Georgia’s democratic prospects in 2025 The West also bears responsibility for the outcome Georgia is a small country that cannot control its external political environment; it is overly dependent on foreign investment for economic growth The outcome of the war in Ukraine, the evolution of Russia-US relations under US President Donald Trump, and elections across Europe (in Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic) will have significant implications for Georgia in particular and the South Caucasus in general
Nika Vanadze
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Italy’snucleartrouble
In the case of Italy, nuclear energy represents the ideal complement to renewable energy in the country's decarbonization efforts since it can supply reliable, continuous, and low-carbon power, fulfilling the demand of the baseload ( the minimum level of energy demand that exists at all times). These features can mitigate the unpredictable and intermittent nature of solar and wind sources; nuclear energy is able to eliminate the need for massive storage devices, guaranteeing a consistent supply of electricity regardless of the weather or the time of year. While other low-carbon baseload technologies like hydro and geothermal can be integrated with nuclear, it is not enough to cover the Italian demand. The necessity for atomic energy is justified by the size and energyintensive nature of the Italian industrial sector and the country’s limited exposure to renewables in crucial areas (since renewables’ production is concentrated in Sardinia, Sicily, and generally in regions distant from the primary energy consumption zones). Moreover, nuclear energy complements renewable energy sources by lowering reliance on unstable energy markets and stabilizing electricity prices over time, accelerating the transition from fossil fuels, such as oil, gas, and coal In fact, given their characteristics, nuclear is by no means a competitor of renewable energy sources, as some critics tend to think, but rather a substitute for fossil fuels However, the concept of "competition among sources" is flawed in itself, as all sources should be pragmatically considered to ensure an energy mix that is both environmentally efficient and economically competitive A competitive energy mix has to provide for separate demands at different times, which makes proposals like 100% renewables unachievable, both financially and practically Similarly, a 100% nuclear solution is superfluous, as cheaper renewables are a better provider for discontinued energy consumption over time For this reason, nuclear and renewable energy could combine to create a reliable, secure, and sustainable energy mix that helps achieve Italy’s decarbonization objectives
nuclear program's difficulties than American influence.
From pioneers of the atom to the creation of ENEL
Exploration of the civil use of atomic energy began after the end of the Second World War, with Italy founding its first scientific organization devoted to studying nuclear power in 1946 In 1952, the National Committee for Nuclear Research (CNRN), tasked with advancing atomic energy development and promotion, replaced this original organization
After its reorganization in 1960, the CNRN became the National Committee for Nuclear Energy (CNEN), known todayas ENEA In contrast to state-led programs by the CNRN, the U S supported private Italian companies like Edison, which created a conflict between private enterprise and state-driven policies, hindering Italy’s progress These domestic disputes played a bigger role in Italy's
Italy's first nuclear reactor entered service in Latina in 1963, while the country's first boiling water reactor, established in Garigliano, was also connected to the grid shortly after Finally, the pressurized water reactor at Trino Vercellese began construction in 1961 It is crucial to note that various businesses started these early initiatives before Enel was even founded in 1962 due to the nationalization of the electricity sector In the following four years,
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Italy’snucleartrouble
the management of the three plants was transferred to Enel.
In retrospect, the nationalization of the Italian energy sector hindered Italian nuclear development and overall Italian energy security, as it led the country through a precarious path of poor decisions by the ENEL administration and the political leadership What could have been an opportunity for efficiency, national security, and cost-effective strategic investments became a prison that held foreign investments away
In the beginning, Enel expressed enthusiasm for an extensive nuclear program and launched a massive nuclear plant construction program in 1966 to achieve 12,000 MWe of nuclear capacity by 1980 However, this plan was almost immediately scaled down in favor of a significant investment in oil refineries at a low technological level; this choice proved to be profitable at first (when Italian pollution laws were very permissive), but it was financially catastrophic later on The 1973 oil crisis put the Italian economy in a precarious position and further encouraged investments in atomic energy, following the principle of obtaining energy independence With nearly 60% of its energy coming from oil and an already saturated hydroelectric sector, Italy found in nuclear energy a powerful tool to meet its energy needs
The only actual investment from the 1960s expansion plan was the ENEL bid to build a fourth nuclear power plant in 1967 in Caorso, which went into service in May 1978. In comparison, between 1974 and 1980, France responded to the energy crisis by financing the construction of 42 new nuclear reactors. Paris’ substantial investment in nuclear power decades ago is one of the factors that have led to French energy independence and to France’s current status as the world’s largest net power exporter.
In the early 1980s, Italy began developing a standard design for reactors, with plans initially made for building 10 new power plants with 2x1000 MWe reactors for a total of 20 reactors However, these plans were unrealistic considering the modus operandi of Italian politics - i e , never trying to displease anyone for electoral reasons The final project was drastically reduced, only approving the construction of 3 out of the originally planned 10 plantsone in Piedmont (Trino Vercellese), one in Lombardy, and one in Puglia; these plants
would be based on Westinghouse’s pressurized water reactor technology, but the final plan did not specify crucial information related to the siting of the plan or the division of responsibility between operators. Around the same time, in 1982, the construction of an additional power plant in Montalto di Castro began These projects paled compared to French domestic investments, leading Italy to lose its pioneering role in the nuclear sector However, it was still an enormous leap forward for that time, with Italy planning to increase its atomic energy production by more than six times (adding nearly 8000MWe)
The downfall of the Italian nuclear sector
The Chernobyl disaster of April 1986 completely changed the cards on the table. Although a national conference on energy in February 1987 reviewed the components of the Italian nuclear program and expressed general technical optimism for continuing operation, the November 1987 referendum on nuclear energy struck down the Italian atomic sector. The nuclear power plants were permanently shut down, and decommissioning began. The crucial role in dismantling the nuclear sector was assigned to Sogin (Società Gestione Impianti Nucleari), a newly established stateowned enterprise charged with managing the decommissioning of Enel's and ENEA's atomic assets and handling nuclear waste The referendum also suspended investments by Italian firms in foreign atomic projects
However, this changed in 2004 when a new energy bill allowed Italian and foreign companies to collaborate on nuclear joint ventures and import electricity In 2008, plans were made for a gradual return of nuclear power plants on Italian soil Between 2004 and 2010, Enel bought shares in many foreign atomic projects, the most notable ones in France, Spain, Slovakia, and Russia
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Italy’snucleartrouble
Legislation enacted in July 2009 foresaw a crucial role for nuclear power in Italy's energy policy, setting a 25% target for energy generation coming from nuclear power sources by 2030.
Interestingly, anti-nuclear political action extended beyond the national level, as some sub-national (regional) governing bodies passed laws to prohibit the construction of new nuclear plants within their territories. Although the Constitutional Court overturned these bills, this issue of autonomy and regional authority will frequently arise in this article. While it appeared that the conditions were primed for an Italian nuclear Renaissance, in January 2011, the Constitutional Court allowed a referendum on the reintroduction of atomic power. This referendum, held in June 2011, strongly opposed the government's nuclear initiatives, including the 2009 legislation for atomic power, stating that nuclear energy production was to be
abandoned Unfortunately, this referendum was doomed from the start It was perceived as a vote against Silvio Berlusconi and his government, with technical and economic considerations set aside to give the arena for a purely ideological fight between Berlusconi’s supporters and critics. Furthermore, the Fukushima incident in April 2011 did not help the odds of a nuclear comeback. Instead of objective and scientific discussion, the Italian media covered news in an emotionally manipulative and, in many instances, purposefully misinformative manner. A defeat in the referendum marked the beginning of the end for the Berlusconi IV government and ended Italy’s efforts for a nuclear revival, this time for good.
Modern-day debate under the Meloni government
It looked like nuclear energy was a memory of the past until February 2022, when international developments forced Italy to question its stand once again. The Russian invasion of Ukraine resulted in an energy crisis that hit the European economies, with Italy being among the most exposed. This energy crisis reopened a debate in Italian politics and civil society, with the Draghi government finding itself in the spot to find new sources to cover the Italian energy demand. It is important to note that the Draghi government was a large and heterogeneous technocratic government, supported by almost all political forces (aside from Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy), meaning that, despite its large majority, it enjoyed limited breadth for maneuver Ecological Transition Minister Roberto Cingolani made plans to mitigate the harsh impact of the energy crisis on the Italian economy by seeking out new supply lines An ambitious plan was put forward, including a cutdown on energy consumption in summer to meet winter needs, an increase in investments in renewables, and the construction of new liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals to secure alternative suppliers that would make up for Russian gas As a final consideration, Cingolani informally paved the way for a return to nuclear energy as a complement for renewables, publicly supporting the return of nuclear energy throughout his term
The Draghi government successfully managed the initial stages of the energy crisis but did not last long enough to see the winter, as it collapsed in July and was subsequently substituted by the Meloni government after the Centre-right coalition won the 2022 general elections
The past two years have seen the country’s return to a political scenario similar to 2009 and 2011, with regard to the relationship between parties and nuclear energy A crucial actor is Gilberto Pichetto Fratin (Roberto Cingolani’s successor), who has openly expressed his support for the return to nuclear power on various occasions, and similar enthusiasm has come from different figures from the governing parties (Brothers of Italy, Lega, Forza Italia) However, the government has done little to nothing on the matter for the past two years, a sluggishness that is difficult to comprehend by the stability and relatively strong majority of the current executive These two factors make the often-cited justification for the government’s reticence, namely the fear of not being able to capitalize politically and economically on a long-term investment such as nuclear power, somewhat a moot point Despite the government’s strength, ministers and other government officials have often expressed themselves in very vague and sometimes inconsistent ways on the topic
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Italy’snucleartrouble
While the Democratic Party remains uncertain with internal disagreements (between a skeptical party leadership but a non-negligible share of the base in favor), the Five Star Movement is the only significant political force that openly opposes nuclear energy, recently proposing the latter’s exclusion from European taxonomy In general, these two parties assume a skeptical position on the topic, in contrast to the government’s support for nuclear energy in a dynamic similar to the one Italy faced in 2011, where atomic energy was used merely as a tool for political confrontation The Greens-Left Alliance firmly opposes nuclear energy, advocating for its exclusion from the Net Zero Industry Act’s list of strategic technologies Both the Five Star Movement and the Greens-Left Alliance oppose any kind of investment in nuclear energy, sometimes supporting anti-scientific policies or economically inefficient and unrealistic solutions, such as achieving 100% renewable energy production to cover Italy’s energy needs At the same time, centrist liberal parties like Italia Viva, +Europa, and Azione generally support advanced third-generation technology but lack a unified stance However, the strongest stances on nuclear energy come from politically weaker parties (like the Greens or the liberal parties) making a significant shift in Italy’s nuclear policy unlikely in the near future
Nonetheless, the dual nature of political party positions has long been a general issue in the Italian political system. Local sections of the parties, backed by local committees and environmental
organizations, have always opposed the construction of extensive infrastructures. This happened even if the party’s secretariat or the majority of the parties were in favor of infrastructural investments at the national level, whether the matter was energy, like nuclear reactors or even wind farms (as for the current case of wind farms in the Sardinia region), transportation (like the Turin–Lyon high-speed railway), or evenwhen it has come to building infrastructure strategic for the national interest; this type of "NIMBYism" is a pervasive issue in Italian society The National Radioactive Waste Repository and its research center (which, needless to say, do not pose any security or health threat to the local population) will store radioactive waste generated not only by decommissioning former nuclear power plants in Italy but also by the research sector, the pharmaceutical industry, and the medical field The repository could be built in 51 potential locations on the national territory, as highlighted in the CNAI (the national map of eligible areas) The siting decision has not been made due to regional bills and local protests against construction of the deposit For instance, in May 2024, the Lazio regional council unanimously (and, therefore, with the votes of the parties in the national government) approved a bill prohibiting the construction of the repository on the region’s territory. Out of 51 identified possible locations for the national repository, 21 are located in the province of Viterbo alone, in the Lazio region.
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Italy’snucleartrouble
The fundamental issue at stake is that Italy is currently paying exorbitant fees to either stack its radioactive waste on dispersed deposits on national territory or export it overseas. An issue of particular relevance to Italian national interest that first surfaced during Matteo Renzi’s tenure as PM in the mid-2010s, and since no government had the will or strength to address it with the needed urgency.
Conclusion
The current executive doesn't seem particularly interested in investing in nuclear energy, but rather uses the topic as a mere electoral promise In their first two years in power, the ruling parties rarely did anything concrete despite public overtures for nuclear investments and announcing plans to the European Commission and the Italian public No real plan has been laid out, and no site has even been discussed, as the government maintains an ambiguous position (hypothetical support that never materializes into concrete action while stalling on the national repository issue) On the other hand, the main opposition parties have shortsightedly distanced themselves from an essential tool to reach climate goals and decarbonize the Italian economy only to rally against the Meloni government’s position The popular initiative bill (which is a type of law submitted directly from citizens to the Parliament) "Nuclear Energy in the National Electricity Mix Now" recently proposed with a grass-roots campaign in support of nuclear energy by liberal parties, activists and academics represents the only slight glimpse of hope For these reasons, and given Italy’s political context, any change in Rome’s nuclear policy seems unlikely, and an Italian Nuclear Renaissance appears very distant
Nuclear energy is essential to achieve Italy’s energetic independence and decarbonization of its energy sectors, as it is the perfect partner for renewables such as solar and wind energy The Italian government should prioritize these investments in the energy sector, and the fact that none of the main political parties is addressing this topic in a remotely serious manner is worrying However, external circumstances like a new energy crisis could bring a rapid shift to the current status quo, which is obviously not what anyone would want Nonetheless, if this country's problems can only be seriously addressed in emergency situations, shock therapy should be reconsidered
Andrea Ceciliani
Astra Bocconi
Exchangereview
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Exchangereview
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Interview with Elena Conicella, captain of female futsal team
Tell us something about yourself and your role in the team What is it like to be the captain? I’ve played football since I was very young, and it’s the one thing I cannot live without. That’s why I joined the team in my first year at Bocconi, and it’s probably one of the best choices I’ve made in my four (almost five) years here. When I started, both the team and the management were being restructured, and I can say we ’ ve been extremely lucky to have people in the management (both of Bocconi Sport as a whole and of the team itself) who have given so much to the futsal team in every possible way Everyone who has been in touch with this team has loved it with all their heart, which is why, for me, it’s an honor and an incredible source of joy to be able to say that I’m now the captain I have been under the guidance of different captains before, and I’ve always seen them as a reference point, someone who can unite everyone ’ s passion for this sport I hope the girls see me in the same way now.
What’s it like to be a university student and an athlete at the same time? How do you balance the two?
Playing for the university team helps because they always understand that sometimes it gets hard with university, and maybe you can’t be 100% present for a couple of training sessions I don’t see the two things as something to balance: at the end of the day, when you ’ re super tired after a long day of lectures, there’s nothing I love more than going to training, chatting with my friends, letting all my feelings out while playing, and then getting something to drink together
Now let’s talk about the team. What’s the environment like? What would you say to someone who wants to be part of this experience?
There’s so much to say I don’t even know where to start Again, I think it’s one of the best experiences you can have at Bocconi The training sessions, the championships, the international tournaments So many different occasions where you can represent your university with your friends! I’ve met so many incredible people here, and I can say that some of them have become my best friends. Sharing a passion like this creates bonds like nothing else, so I really encourage anyone who’s into sports to at least consider it!
What’s the game you will never forget? Or that one memory with the team that you will carry with you forever?
I can’t think about the tournament we had in Barcelona in 2022 without having the biggest smile on my face. The best four days of my university years. Just imagine playing football all day, then exploring one of the most beautiful cities in the world with your amazing team, then going out at night and not spending a single minute without laughing And I think the best thing about it is that if you asked any other girl who was there, they would give you the same answer Because the bond we felt was so strong that it truly touched all of us, very deeply and still to this day in an incredibly emotional way To me, that feels like perfection
That’s all I can say
And just to briefly mention our performance we did great, as we always do on these occasions We put so much of ourselves into the game that we truly push past any limits we might face
Lastly, do you want to say something to our readers?
Two things First, if you ’ re into sports, don’t miss the chance to play for a team because I swear it will give you the best memories Second, come support us because we ’ re doing great things!!!!
Tommaso Magnani
CONTACTS
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HEAD OF PRESS OFFICE: FEDERICA LEACI
EDITORIAL DIRECTORs: ALBERTO SCHEMBRI, FEDERICO MELLACE, GIADA PIGLIAPOCO
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