Thousands of people gathered in Rome today to protest social and economic policies. The demonstration, led by the country’s largest labor union, CGIL, aligned with the broad spectrum of civil groups and opposed the right wing government’s stance on constitutional guarantees. Organizers called for job security, a sustainable future, and no cuts to public health and education as a central demand.
The rally drew support from more than a hundred non governmental organizations and drew an estimated crowd of about 100 thousand, according to organizers. Local authorities reported a smaller turnout of around 35 thousand. The event aimed to unite the nation under a clear message: the constitutional rights must be realized for everyone. CGIL’s general secretary, Maurizio Landini, emphasized that it was time to end a sense of resignation and to push for stronger protections across work and social policy.
Health care and quality public education
In a mood that blended protest with celebration, banners from secular and Catholic groups fluttered in the crowd while participants sang songs like Bella Ciao. They argued for increased salaries and pensions, a stronger fight against poverty and war, and greater environmental safeguards, all alongside a renewed commitment to public health and education.
By early afternoon, two separate marches from different parts of the city converged toward Plaza de San Juan, a symbolic focal point for the day’s events. Union leaders and representatives from prominent advocacy groups spoke, culminating in a concluding address by Landini.
Landini argued that wages and pensions have fallen in real terms while corporate profits surged to unprecedented levels. He criticized the government for relying on taxes that hit workers and retirees while failing to aggressively tackle tax evasion, which he said undermines public finances. He urged policymakers to shift the burden away from ordinary people and toward fairer, more effective tax measures.
Minimum wage and living standards
Chants of strike echoed through streets as speakers pressed for a universal minimum wage. The aim was a flat hourly rate that protects workers from starvation wages. The reform was presented as a matter of dignity and economic security for all who contribute to the labor market.
Representatives from the center left attended in force, including members of the Democratic Party and opposition figure Elly Schlein. Schlein described the day as a powerful display of public engagement on health care and fair wages, noting that people are tired of witnessing strain on the health system from ongoing budget constraints. She affirmed solidarity with citizens seeking social justice and decent pay across the economy.
The Five Star Movement also participated, with leaders expressing support for challenges to the government’s fiscal choices. While Giuseppe Conte was not present in person, he voiced support for policies that aim to boost growth and provide real relief for families facing economic hardship. Conte warned that current budget maneuvers offered no sustainable path to recovery or meaningful intervention for households in need, urging a shift toward policies that expand opportunity instead of widening inequalities.