This book provides students with the most comprehensive and incisive introduction available to the intricacies of the Italian political system. Written in an accessible and student-friendly style, this up-to-date textbook features: an introduction to Italian political history from 1943 to the present day an explanation of the governmental system, the constitutional framework, the core institutions, the electoral system and the key parties analysis of the role of the contemporary pressure groups and social movements including environmental, labour and anti-globalization organizations discussion of important topical issues such as corruption, organized crime, the role of the media and freedom of the press an exploration of Italian foreign policy towards the EU, the US and the 'War on Terrorism' innovative use of photographs, boxed biographies, figures, annotated further reading and lists of websites to enliven the text. Contemporary Italian Politics is the perfect introduction for students reading Italian politics, Italian studies and European studies.