Italy is preparing for widespread disruption on Friday as the CGIL and UIL unions stage a general strike against the 2025 budget. The strike is set to affect both public and private sectors, lasting eight hours or the full work shift.
Transport services will face reduced action following a back-to-work order issued by Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini. Local public transport, air travel, and maritime services will strike for only four hours. However, the CGIL and UIL unions have appealed this decision to Lazio’s regional administrative tribunal (TAR), seeking to overturn the restrictions. Rail transport, meanwhile, is excluded from the strike.
Timings and Impact
Under Salvini’s ordinance, the strike hours for key transport sectors are as follows:
- Air travel: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, including air traffic controllers.
- Buses, metros, and trams: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, while respecting guarantee bands.
- Ships and ferries: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- Firefighters: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Taxi services may face interruptions throughout the day, adding to the inconvenience for commuters.
Union Demands
The CGIL and UIL are pushing for significant changes to government policies, including:
- Salary increases.
- Greater funding for healthcare and education.
- Investments in public services and industrial development.
Union leaders argue that the budget fails to address economic disparities and underfunding in essential sectors. The CGIL have asked for a ‘social revolt‘.
Nationwide Protests
In addition to the strike, 43 demonstrations are planned across the country on Friday. CGIL Secretary-General Maurizio Landini will lead the final rally in Bologna, while UIL leader Pierpaolo Bombardieri will conclude the Naples demonstration.
As Italy braces for Friday’s disruption, the government faces mounting pressure to address union demands and avert prolonged unrest.
