National Action (Italy)

National Action (Azione Nazionale) was an Italian political movement with roots in post-World War II Italian Social Movement (MSI) and the broader Italian right-wing political landscape. It represented a faction within the MSI that sought a more modern and less overtly neo-fascist image while still maintaining a strong nationalistic platform.

The movement's origins can be traced to internal debates within the MSI regarding its direction and ideological positioning. Some members felt the party needed to shed its associations with the defunct Fascist regime to attract a wider base of support and become a more viable contender in Italian politics. They advocated for a more moderate and pragmatic approach while retaining core nationalist principles such as national sovereignty, social justice, and the importance of Italian identity.

National Action typically supported a strong state, economic nationalism, and traditional values. However, they also emphasized the need for a modern and efficient administration and a market-oriented economy with social safety nets. In terms of foreign policy, they generally advocated for a strong role for Italy within Europe and a focus on national interests.

The importance and influence of National Action varied over time, often existing as a faction or tendency within larger right-wing formations. Depending on the specific period, it may have operated as a relatively independent organization or as a current within another political party. Figures associated with this political tendency would often play important roles in the Italian right.

The group's exact timeline of activity, influence, and membership numbers are subject to scholarly interpretation, given its status as a faction and movement rather than a consistently monolithic party. Its legacy can be found in the evolution of the Italian right-wing political spectrum.