“Work, Peace, Environment, Welfare, Constitution” was the slogan under which the Italian General Confederation of Labour (CGIL) returned to the streets of Rome for a demonstration supported by more than one hundred associations.
Anav Sicilia, a trade association representing passenger transport companies, has warned that private transport services could face disruption due to a diesel shortage starting Monday..
The demonstration put forward several proposals and demands, ranging from higher wages and more secure employment to a “truly fair” tax system. Other demands included public healthcare and education for all, access to housing, and policies that reconcile employment with environmental protection.
The demonstrators also called for peace, opposing rearmament and increased military spending, while defending freedom of dissent and demanding the protection and implementation of the Constitution.
Regarding taxation, the demands include combating tax evasion, reducing the tax burden on wages and pensions, taxing excessive profits and high incomes and wealth, and ensuring a progressive tax system. The organizers insist that those who have more should contribute more.
The demonstrators also called for increased public funding for healthcare to 7.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) and for education to 5% of GDP. The proposed increases are intended to recruit more staff, reduce waiting lists, and guarantee quality public services throughout the country.
Protests also broke out in Milan and Turin. In central Milan, a large number of stones were thrown at police officers on Via Broletto, near Via San Tomaso, where the “Italia in Piazza” march was brought to a halt. More than 5,000 protesters took part in the march.
Protesters also threw fireworks at police, while the march split into two groups.
Meanwhile, clashes broke out on two occasions in Turin during a demonstration against the rising cost of living. Italian media reported injuries and arrests.
