The recent decision by Italy to refrain from joining the so-called “Board of Peace” highlights broader tensions in international diplomacy, particularly regarding the relationships between world powers and their approaches to global conflict resolution. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized constitutional limitations that prevent Italy from aligning with a body perceived as lacking the foundational principles of equality and shared governance, underscoring the complexities of diplomatic engagement in volatile contexts such as Gaza.
Italy has announced its inability to participate in U.S. President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace,” citing constitutional constraints as the primary reason for this decision. According to Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, fundamental conflicts between Italy’s constitution and the board’s charter present “insurmountable” legal challenges. Despite this, he reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to engage in peace initiatives whenever possible.
This outcome sees Italy, alongside several other European nations—including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom—opt out of an initiative that many critics consider controversial. The Board of Peace, recently approved by the United Nations as a transitional governing entity for the post-war region in Gaza, has faced scrutiny for its expansive remit, which notably excludes specific reference to the dire circumstances of Gaza itself.
Italy’s choice emerges despite the significant diplomatic rapport between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the board’s chairman, Trump. Observers have expressed concern that this initiative, publicly launched in Davos, Switzerland, may seek to undermine established frameworks like those provided by the United Nations.
Tajani cited Article 11 of the Italian constitution, which prohibits participation in international organizations that do not guarantee equal standing with other states—a principle he argues is violated by a governing structure that names Trump as the veto-wielding chairman. This creates a dynamic where he serves as the ultimate authority on the board’s interpretations, fostering perceptions of inequality.
In a broader context, Tajani indicated that Italy remains willing to contribute to peace efforts in Gaza, mentioning potential training programs for local police, which reflects Italy’s proactive stance in fostering stability in the region. Despite the board’s controversial nature—reportedly requiring members to pay as much as billion for permanent seats—Tajani’s remarks signal Italy’s enduring interest in constructive involvement.
The board is preparing for its inaugural meeting in Washington, D.C., scheduled for February 19, coinciding with a meeting between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has affirmed his attendance as a crucial ally of Trump. This evolving geopolitical situation has prompted UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to assert that responsibility for maintaining global peace primarily lies within the UN framework, reiterating the organization’s essential role.
As the dynamic surrounding the Board of Peace develops, the implications of Italy’s decision highlight continuing debates about governance, equality, and the quest for peace in a complex and often divided international landscape.
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