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A Friday of inconveniences and protests
The recent general strike called by the Unione sindacale di base (Usb) has unleashed a series of disruptions across the country, highlighting a climate of growing social tension. Despite the injunction by the Minister of Transport, Matteo Salvini, and the subsequent rejection of the ordinance by the TAR of Lazio, the strike remained in force for 24 hours, with significant participation that, however, did not completely block the country. The demonstrations took place in several cities, with episodes of violence and clashes, such as the one that occurred in Turin during a student march.
The reactions of the government and the unions
Deputy Prime Minister Salvini denounced yet another Friday of chaos, stressing that the demonstrations are not only a moment of protest, but also an occasion for acts of violence and damage. In response, USB accused the minister of being inadequate, stating that inconveniences for users are a daily constant. Salvini reiterated his intention to review the law on strikes, considering it a weapon of political conflict rather than a tool for protecting workers. This position has provoked strong reactions, especially from Jewish communities, which have expressed dismay at the motivations behind the demonstrations, accusing some slogans used during the protests of anti-Semitism.
The demands of the protesters
In the leaflet distributed during the strike, the USB asked to stop the government's maneuver and to say "no to the war economy", asking instead for an increase in wages and pensions and greater safety at work. In Rome, about 5.000 people participated in the march, which saw flags and banners parading against the Meloni government. The activists declared: "The terror that the government had in making us march is our victory. We do not give up. This is the new resistance", underlining the presence of different social categories united in the protest.
Transport disruptions and impacts on the public
The day of the strike led to significant disruptions to public transport, with subway lines closed and trains cancelled. In Rome, subway lines A and C were stopped, while in Milan, line 1 and a funicular in Naples were interrupted. Commuters faced delays and cancellations, with waits reaching 100 minutes on some routes. The rail strike will end at 21 p.m. tonight, while the airline sector will mobilise on December 15, promising further disruption for travellers.
