About
Giuseppe Conte is an Italian jurist, academic, and politician. He served as the Prime Minister of Italy from June 2018 to February 2021, leading two different coalition governments. Prior to entering politics, Conte was a professor of private law and a practicing lawyer. Since August 2021, he has been the president of the Five Star Movement (M5S).
Career Timeline
Academic and Legal Career
Conte works as a law professor and practicing lawyer, earning a comfortable income but with virtually no public recognition. He is unknown outside academic and legal circles.
Surprise Prime Minister Pick
Nominated as Prime Minister by the Five Star Movement-League coalition, despite having no prior political experience. His appointment shocks Italian politics and brings instant national recognition.
New Coalition Government
After the first coalition collapses, Conte forms a new government with the Democratic Party. He demonstrates political skill in navigating Italy's complex parliamentary system.
COVID-19 Crisis Leadership
Leads Italy through Europe's first major COVID-19 outbreak, implementing strict lockdowns and negotiating EU recovery funds. His handling of the crisis temporarily boosts his popularity.
Government Collapse
Conte's second government falls after coalition partner Italia Viva withdraws support. He resigns as Prime Minister, ending his unexpected political tenure.
Five Star Movement President
Becomes president of the Five Star Movement, attempting to revitalize the declining populist party. His influence is now limited to party politics rather than national leadership.
Diminished Political Relevance
Conte leads a much-weakened Five Star Movement, now a minor party in Italian politics. He is known in Italy for his brief prime ministership but has faded from mainstream prominence and has negligible international recognition.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026