Who Rules Rome Today?

By Anna Duncan

Who Rules Rome Today?

When we think of Rome, it’s hard not to conjure up images of ancient emperors, gladiators, and the grandeur of the Roman Empire. However, Rome is not just a city frozen in time but a bustling modern metropolis that continues to evolve and be governed by various entities. In this article, we explore who rules Rome today and the structure of its governance.

The Mayor of Rome

At the helm of the city’s administration is the Mayor of Rome. Currently, the position is held by Virginia Raggi, who was elected in 2016 as the first female mayor in the city’s history. She belongs to the Five Star Movement political party.

The City Council

The City Council plays a crucial role in governing Rome. Comprising 48 members, they are responsible for making decisions on behalf of the citizens and overseeing various aspects of city life. The City Council members are elected by Roman citizens every five years.

Municipal Departments

To efficiently manage the diverse responsibilities of governing such a large city, several municipal departments have been established. These departments focus on specific areas such as urban planning, transportation, education, culture, and tourism.

  • Department of Urban Planning: Responsible for managing construction permits, zoning regulations, and urban development projects.
  • Department of Transportation: Handles public transportation systems including buses, trams, and metros while ensuring smooth traffic flow.
  • Department of Education: Oversees schools and educational programs within Rome.
  • Department of Culture: Promotes cultural events and heritage preservation.
  • Department of Tourism: Works to attract tourists and manage tourism-related activities in the city.

The Lazio Region

Rome is not an isolated entity but is part of the larger Lazio region. The regional government, known as the Lazio Regional Council, is responsible for governing the entire region, which includes Rome and other municipalities within its boundaries.

The President of the Lazio Region

The President of the Lazio Region is the head of the regional government. The current president is Nicola Zingaretti, who was elected in 2013. Similar to Rome’s mayor, the president is responsible for overseeing various administrative departments and policies related to the region.

The Italian Government

As Rome serves as Italy’s capital, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Italian government. The national government plays a significant role in decision-making processes that impact Rome’s governance and development.

In conclusion, Rome’s governance structure involves multiple layers with different entities working together to ensure effective administration. From the Mayor of Rome and City Council to municipal departments handling specific responsibilities, as well as being part of the larger Lazio region governed by its own council and president, Rome’s governance system remains dynamic and ever-evolving.