Written by Stephan Faris (TIME May 14,2012)
Italy’s failed politicians cling to power even as the country’s woes linger.
An Italian comedian Beppe Grillo is
organizing nationwide protests against governmental corruption called “Go F
Yourself” days. Italy’s politics has stagnated. Political parties change
frequently through splits and mergers. Corruption scandals are competing for
column inches. Public confidence in the political class is in the single
digits. 11.6% of the workforce had given up looking for work. The official
unemployment rate is 9.8%. However, maverick mayoral candidates in Milan and
Florence have challenged their party hierarchies and won. The message should
not be “button down,” but “open up.” 100 words
