riforma

Riforma is an Italian noun meaning reform or reformation. It derives from the Latin reformare, meaning to shape again or restore. In Italian, riforma denotes deliberate changes intended to improve a system, institution, or practice. The term is used across many fields, including politics, law, economy, education, and public administration. Common phrases include riforme costituzionali (constitutional reforms), riforme sociali (social reforms), and riforma del mercato del lavoro (labor market reform). The plural form is riforme; related adjectives include riformatore/riformatrice (reformist) and riformabile (reformable) depending on context.

Historically, La Riforma refers to the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century, a religious movement that criticized practices of the Catholic Church and led to the emergence of Protestant churches in Europe. In Catholic discourse, the term can also denote internal church reforms or calls for renewal.

In contemporary policy discourse, riforma is a central concept in debates over modernization and governance. Governments frequently frame policy programs as riforme to emphasize structural change, efficiency, and adaptability, as opposed to ad hoc measures. The term is common in discussions of constitutional, educational, economic, and administrative change. Critics may characterize reforms as partial, insufficient, or selectively implemented, depending on perspective and outcomes sought.

See also: riformismo, reform, reformer.