Background
Silvio Berlusconi, Italy’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2011, was accused of hosting “Bunga Bunga†sex parties involving young women, some allegedly minors, at his residences. The scandal drew international attention, combining issues of personal misconduct, bribery, and potential abuse of political power.
Events
Investigations began in 2009 and continued through 2011. Berlusconi faced multiple charges, including paying for sex with a minor, abuse of office, and obstruction of justice. He was convicted in some cases but also had several convictions overturned on appeal, reflecting complex Italian judicial proceedings.
Impact & Legacy
The Bunga Bunga Scandal damaged Berlusconi’s international reputation, sparked widespread media coverage, and prompted debate on political accountability, ethics, and legal reform in Italy. It remains a defining example of personal misconduct impacting political careers.