Italy, Europe: Listen to labour – the call from Rome

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in the streets of Rome on the one year anniversary of the fascist attack on the CGIL headquarters. They called on Italian and European decision-makers to listen to the needs of working people.

A set of ten demands were put forward. Strengthening collective bargaining as well as tax justice were the priorities to address the cost-of-living crisis. Tackling the conditions of precarity that are gripping the country and reinforcing social security and public services too. This includes a call for the introduction of social conditionality on public contracts and subsidies going to private companies.

UNI Europa joined the demonstration as well as an event titled International Antifascist Network for Work Rights and Democracy. Oliver Roethig shared insights from the Upholding and Strengthening Democracy, where trade unions from across Europe shared strategies and tactics to neutralise attempts to stoke division by far right groups.

“We need a project that puts work back on centre-stage: the fight against precariousness, but also better working conditions and wage dignity. Giving a different future to the country means giving prospects and a future to young people, women and all working people,” said Maria Grazia Gabrielli, General Secretary of FILCAMS.

“From the streets of Rome to the whole of Europe, working people are sounding the alarm and demanding respect. The cost-of-living crisis is plunging many deeper into the red. It must be tackled by putting working people centre stage. Collective bargaining is the solution. It is now time for action to strengthen democracy at work,” said Oliver Roethig, Regional Secretary of UNI Europa.

Further information:

• FILCAMS – ‘Italia, Europa: ascoltate il lavoro’
• FISAC – Ascoltate il Lavoro – rivedi la manifestazione
• Collettiva – Con il lavoro si cambia il Paese