Gennaro Sangiuliano is a prominent figure in Italian journalism and politics, known for his intellectual contributions and his involvement in the right-wing political landscape of Italy. Born on June 6, 1962, in Naples, Italy, Sangiuliano has built a multifaceted career spanning journalism, academia, and politics. This article delves into his life, achievements, and the significant roles he has played in shaping the Italian media and political scene.
Early Life and Education
Gennaro Sangiuliano was born and raised in Naples, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant history. His early education took place at a classical high school, reflecting his inclination towards the humanities and classical studies. Sangiuliano chose to stay in his hometown for higher education, enrolling at the prestigious University of Naples Federico II, where he earned a degree in law. His academic journey did not stop there; he pursued further studies in European private law at the University of Rome “La Sapienza.” His academic prowess was further demonstrated when he completed a Ph.D. in Law and Economics, achieving the highest honors.
Political Beginnings and Early Career
Sangiuliano’s political inclinations leaned towards the right from a young age. He became actively involved with the Fronte della Gioventù, the youth wing of the Italian Social Movement (Movimento Sociale Italiano), a political party known for its right-wing ideology. Between 1983 and 1987, he served as a district councilor in Naples, representing the Italian Social Movement. This early political involvement set the stage for his later career in both journalism and politics.
His professional career began in the media industry, where he joined Canale 8, a local television station. This initial experience in journalism was followed by a significant role as the editor of the biweekly publication L’Opinione del Mezzogiorno. These roles provided Sangiuliano with the platform to hone his journalistic skills and establish himself as a voice in the media industry.
Rise in Journalism
The 1990s marked a significant turning point in Gennaro Sangiuliano’s career. He joined the editorial team of L’Indipendente, a newspaper that, despite its name, was published in Naples. His ability to critically analyze political events and his editorial acumen led him to become the director of Roma, another prominent Naples-based newspaper, where he served from 1996 to 2001.
Sangiuliano’s reputation as a journalist grew, and he became known for his incisive commentary and critical analysis. His work garnered respect from across the political spectrum, allowing him to contribute to publications with diverse political leanings. He served as the deputy editor of the daily newspaper Libero, known for its conservative stance, while also contributing to L’Espresso, a magazine with a more liberal perspective. This versatility in his journalism underscores his ability to engage with a wide range of political ideologies.
One of the most notable moments in his journalistic career came when he wrote a critical eulogy for the late Italian President Francesco Cossiga. This piece, published upon Cossiga’s death, included a pointed critique of the then-President Giorgio Napolitano, reflecting Sangiuliano’s willingness to challenge powerful figures and his commitment to journalistic integrity.
Transition to Public Broadcasting: RAI
In 2001, Sangiuliano made a brief foray into active politics, running for a parliamentary seat under the banner of the newly formed Casa delle Libertà coalition. Despite his efforts, he was not elected to the Italian Chamber of Deputies. Undeterred, he redirected his focus back to journalism and soon joined RAI, Italy’s national public broadcasting company, in 2003.
At RAI, Sangiuliano quickly rose through the ranks. He initially served as the editor-in-chief of TGR, RAI’s regional news service, and later worked as a correspondent for TG1, RAI’s flagship news program. His assignments included covering international conflicts, such as the wars in Bosnia and Kosovo, where he demonstrated his ability to report from challenging environments.
Under the leadership of Augusto Minzolini, Sangiuliano was appointed as the deputy director of TG1. This role placed him at the heart of RAI’s news operations, where he was involved in shaping the editorial direction of one of Italy’s most-watched news programs. His influence within RAI continued to grow, and in 2018, he was appointed to the company’s board of directors, a position that allowed him to play a key role in steering the public broadcaster during a time of significant political change in Italy.
Academic Contributions
In addition to his work in journalism, Gennaro Sangiuliano has made significant contributions to academia. Since 2015, he has served as the director of the School of Journalism at the University of Salerno, where he has played a pivotal role in training the next generation of Italian journalists. His academic work is not limited to journalism; he is also a faculty member at LUISS Guido Carli University in Rome, where he teaches a course on the history of economics and business. His involvement in these academic institutions highlights his commitment to education and his belief in the importance of nurturing future leaders in media and communication.
Writing and Publishing
Gennaro Sangiuliano is also an accomplished author and essayist, with a body of work that spans legal, economic, and historical topics. His writing career began in earnest in 2006 with the publication of Teoria e tecniche dei new media, a legal-economic manual that explored the evolving landscape of new media. This work established him as a thoughtful and analytical writer, capable of engaging with complex topics.
In 2008, Sangiuliano published a biography of Giuseppe Prezzolini, the founder of La Voce, a cultural and political magazine. This biography was well-received by critics and marked the beginning of a series of historical biographies that would define much of Sangiuliano’s later work. His 2012 book, Scacco allo Zar, delved into the life of Lenin during his time on the island of Capri. The book was praised for its historical accuracy and won the Capalbio Prize, a prestigious Italian literary award.
Sangiuliano continued to explore historical themes in his writing, often focusing on the lives of significant political figures. His collaboration with Vittorio Feltri on Quarto Reich – Come la Germania ha sottomesso l’Europa garnered considerable media attention and further solidified his reputation as a historian with a sharp political perspective.
In 2019, Sangiuliano published a biography of Chinese President Xi Jinping, which examined the power structures of modern China. This book was particularly well-received, earning the Grand Prix International Casinò di Sanremo 1905, an accolade that underscores the international recognition of his work.
Minister of Culture
Following the 2022 Italian general elections, Gennaro Sangiuliano was appointed as the Minister of Culture in the government led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This role represents the culmination of his career, allowing him to influence Italy’s cultural policies at the highest level. As Minister of Culture, Sangiuliano is responsible for overseeing Italy’s rich cultural heritage, promoting the arts, and supporting the country’s creative industries. His appointment to this position reflects his deep knowledge of Italian history and culture, as well as his commitment to preserving and promoting Italy’s cultural legacy.
Personal Life
Despite his public profile, Gennaro Sangiuliano has managed to keep much of his personal life private. He married journalist Federica Corsini in 2018, with whom he shares a strong professional and personal bond. Their wedding was a notable event, with Maurizio Gasparri, a prominent Italian politician, serving as Sangiuliano’s best man. Corsini has been a steadfast supporter of Sangiuliano throughout his career, accompanying him on his professional journey and providing support in his various endeavors.
Conclusion
Gennaro Sangiuliano’s life and career are marked by a dedication to journalism, a commitment to education, and a deep involvement in Italian politics. His journey from a young activist in Naples to a prominent journalist and, ultimately, the Minister of Culture, reflects his determination and intellectual rigor. As he continues to shape Italy’s cultural landscape, Gennaro Sangiuliano remains a key figure in the country’s media and political spheres, influencing both public opinion and cultural policy. His story is one of perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and a steadfast commitment to his principles, making him a significant figure in contemporary Italy.
