Attilio Fontana, born on March 28, 1952, in Varese, Italy, is a prominent Italian politician and lawyer, best known for his significant contributions to the regional politics of Lombardy. His career spans several decades, during which he has held various high-profile positions, including serving as the President of the Lombardy region since 2018. This article delves into Fontana’s life, exploring his journey from a young lawyer to a leading political figure, his rise to fame, and the key moments that have shaped his career.
Early Life and Legal Career
Attilio Fontana was born into a traditional Italian family in Varese, a city located in the northern region of Lombardy. From an early age, he displayed a keen interest in law and politics. This passion led him to pursue a degree in law at the University of Milan, where he graduated in 1975. Following his graduation, Fontana quickly established himself as a competent lawyer, opening his own law practice in Varese in 1980.
During this period, Fontana also began to dabble in local politics. In 1982, he became a conciliator in Induno Olona, a small town near Varese. However, it wasn’t long before he left this role to take on the position of Vice Pretore Onorario (Honorary Deputy Magistrate) in the Pretura of Gavirate, where he served until 1988. These early experiences laid the foundation for his later political career, providing him with a deep understanding of the legal and administrative frameworks that govern local and regional politics in Italy.
Entry into Politics: The 1990s and Early Success
Fontana’s formal entry into politics came in the mid-1990s when he joined the Lega Nord (Northern League), a political party known for its regionalist and federalist positions. His legal background and dedication to public service quickly made him a key figure within the party. In 1995, Fontana was elected as the Mayor of Induno Olona, marking the beginning of his political journey.
His tenure as mayor was marked by significant achievements, particularly in the areas of local governance and community development. Fontana’s leadership was characterized by a hands-on approach and a deep commitment to improving the lives of his constituents. After serving as mayor until 1999, Fontana’s political career continued to ascend. In 2000, he was elected as a regional councilor in Lombardy and later became the President of the Regional Council. This role allowed him to further influence regional policies and solidify his reputation as a capable and effective leader.
Rise to Prominence: The 2000s and 2010s
The 2000s and 2010s were pivotal decades for Fontana, during which he transitioned from a regional politician to a national figure. In 2006, Fontana decided to run for the mayoralty of Varese, his hometown. His campaign was successful, and he was elected as the Mayor of Varese in the first round of voting, receiving nearly 58% of the vote. His leadership in Varese was marked by a focus on economic development, infrastructure improvement, and public safety.
Fontana’s popularity in Varese was further confirmed when he was re-elected in 2011, albeit after a more challenging election that required a runoff. Despite the increased competition, he managed to secure nearly 54% of the vote in the second round, reflecting his strong support base in the city.
During his time as mayor, Fontana also served as the President of ANCI Lombardia, the regional branch of the National Association of Italian Municipalities. In this role, he advocated for the interests of Lombardy’s municipalities, emphasizing the importance of local governance and the need for greater autonomy for regional governments. His work with ANCI Lombardia further enhanced his reputation as a leader committed to regional development and local empowerment.
Leadership in Lombardy: 2018 and Beyond
Fontana’s most significant political achievement came in 2018 when he was elected as the President of Lombardy, one of Italy’s most economically significant regions. His election was a result of his long-standing commitment to the region and his deep understanding of its political landscape. Fontana ran as the center-right candidate, following the decision of his predecessor, Roberto Maroni, not to seek re-election.
The 2018 regional election was highly competitive, with Fontana facing off against Giorgio Gori, the candidate from the center-left Democratic Party, and Dario Violi, the candidate from the Five Star Movement. Fontana’s victory in this election was decisive, marking a new chapter in his political career. As the President of Lombardy, Fontana’s leadership was immediately tested by the COVID-19 pandemic, which struck Italy in early 2020.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: A Defining Challenge
The COVID-19 pandemic was a defining moment in Attilio Fontana’s career. Lombardy was the epicenter of the outbreak in Italy, and Fontana found himself at the forefront of the country’s response to the crisis. His administration’s handling of the pandemic was closely scrutinized, with both praise and criticism directed at the measures taken to control the virus’s spread.
One of Fontana’s key decisions during the pandemic was to bring in Giulio Gallera, the regional welfare assessor, and Guido Bertolaso, the former head of Italy’s Civil Protection Department, as advisors. Under their guidance, the Lombardy region implemented several emergency measures, including the construction of an auxiliary hospital in Milan’s Fiera district. These efforts were part of a broader strategy to increase the region’s healthcare capacity and manage the overwhelming number of COVID-19 cases.
Fontana’s leadership during the pandemic was marked by difficult decisions and significant challenges. He had to balance the need for strict public health measures with the economic impact on one of Italy’s most industrialized regions. While his approach was sometimes controversial, it underscored his commitment to protecting the health and well-being of Lombardy’s residents.
Legacy and Impact
As of 2024, Attilio Fontana remains a key figure in Italian politics, particularly in the context of regional governance. His career, which spans over four decades, is a testament to his dedication to public service and his ability to navigate the complexities of both local and regional politics.
Fontana’s legacy is characterized by his commitment to the principles of regionalism and federalism, which have been central themes throughout his political career. His work in promoting the autonomy of Lombardy and advocating for the rights of local governments has left a lasting impact on the region’s political landscape.
Moreover, Fontana’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, while controversial, demonstrated his capacity to lead during a crisis. His decisions during this period will likely be studied and debated for years to come, both for their effectiveness and their implications for public health and regional governance.
Conclusion
Attilio Fontana’s life and career offer valuable insights into the workings of Italian regional politics and the challenges of leadership in a complex and dynamic environment. From his early days as a lawyer in Varese to his current role as the President of Lombardy, Fontana’s journey is marked by a deep commitment to his region and a relentless pursuit of effective governance. As he continues to shape the future of Lombardy, his legacy will undoubtedly influence the next generation of Italian politicians and public servants.
