The Fascist regime's impact on rural and agricultural communities was significant, marked by efforts to modernise and increase self-sufficiency in food production. Initiatives like the "Battle for Grain" aimed at increasing grain production to reduce dependence on imports. This policy led to extensive land reclamation and encouraged intensive farming practices. However, the focus on grain production often came at the cost of diversification, impacting the overall agricultural balance. The regime also sought to strengthen its influence in rural areas through propaganda and educational programs, promoting Fascist ideals among the rural population, traditionally less exposed to political movements.

The Fascist regime's policies significantly affected religious minorities in Italy, often leading to discrimination and marginalisation. Although the regime initially maintained a stance of religious tolerance, this changed over time, especially with the introduction of racial laws in 1938. These laws, influenced by Nazi Germany's policies, led to the persecution of Jewish people and other minorities. Jews were excluded from public offices, education, and certain professions, and were subjected to various forms of social and economic discrimination. This marked a stark departure from the regime's earlier claims of religious inclusivity, revealing a more oppressive and totalitarian character.

Mussolini’s regime exerted tight control over Italian media to ensure a consistent and positive portrayal of Fascism. The government took over the news agencies and exerted heavy censorship on press content. Journalists were required to register with the Fascist Party, and only those loyal to the regime were allowed to work. This control extended to radio broadcasts and cinema, which were used as propaganda tools. Radio programs often featured speeches by Mussolini, and films were produced to glorify the regime and its achievements. This media control was a key aspect of the regime’s strategy to maintain power and manipulate public opinion.

International events played a significant role in shaping Mussolini's domestic policies and societal transformation efforts. His desire to project Italy as a major world power influenced many of his policies, including aggressive foreign policy moves like the invasion of Ethiopia. Internationally, the rise of other totalitarian regimes, particularly Nazi Germany, impacted his domestic policies, leading to closer alignment with Hitler's policies, such as the adoption of anti-Semitic laws. The Great Depression also influenced Mussolini's economic policies, necessitating interventions to stabilise the economy. These international factors often dictated Mussolini's domestic agenda, influencing societal changes aimed at bolstering Italy's prestige and Mussolini's image as a strong leader.

Mussolini's regime heavily influenced art and culture to propagate Fascist values. The regime viewed art as a tool to glorify the state and Mussolini himself. It encouraged artworks that depicted robust, heroic figures, symbolising strength and unity – key Fascist ideals. Cultural activities, including cinema, theatre, and literature, were also co-opted to support the regime. Films often featured themes of militarism and nationalism, while books that contradicted Fascist principles were censored. This cultural shift was integral to Mussolini’s strategy of creating a new Fascist consciousness, where art served not just aesthetic purposes but also ideological propaganda.