The Italian elections held in April have returned the centre-right government to power. Silvio Berlusconi is once again Prime Minister, leading a coalition that is even more right-wing than the previous one. The Northern League, gambling on people’s fear of foreigners, managed to address a widespread need for social and economic security, and will now play a pivotal role in the government. What are the real reasons for this party’s success? Relations between Rome and Arab capitals are destined to be overturned. In what sense will Italy’s foreign policy change?