Italy: Public and private sector workers to strike and protest nationwide Oct. 19-20 /update 1

Event

Multiple unions plan public and private sector strikes across Italy on Oct. 19-20. Unions are calling for improved pay and working conditions, among other social issues. The industrial action will impact air travel and rail operations nationwide, and public transport services in major cities. Schools and some government services will also be impacted. As of Oct. 19, separate industrial action by workers affiliated with the USB syndicate is impacting government services in multiple cities.

Unions representing railway operatives nationwide plan to strike from 21:00 Oct. 19 to 21:00 Oct. 20. The action will likely cause significant disruptions across the network; services may also be delayed or canceled in the hours following the formal strike period. The network operator Trenitalia will provide minimum service levels during peak hours; details will be published here.

Air travel labor unions including CUB, SGB, SI-COBAS, and ADL also plan strike action from 00:01 to 23:59 Oct. 20. Services are guaranteed from 07:00-10:00 and 18:00-21:00, however, significant disruptions are likely. The overall impact remains unclear. The industrial action will likely disrupt public transport in major cities including Rome and Milan. Metro, bus, and tram services may all be impacted.

The USB syndicate and other unions plan the following demonstrations in Rome:

• Oct. 19: A march for the "Right to Housing", from 17:00 at Piazzale Aldo Moro.

• Oct. 20: A protest to "Stop the Speculators", from 17:00 in Piazza dei Mirti.

Protests by striking workers are likely nationwide. Rallies are likely in major cities, at transport hubs, and at government buildings.

Significant disruptions to rail travel, national and international flights, and public transport services are highly likely on Oct. 19-20. Increased demand for available services is almost certain. Lingering disruptions are likely following the completion of strike action. Authorities will likely deploy additional police to all demonstrations; additional security measures and road closures will likely prompt localized disruptions.

Advice

Reconfirm the status of all travel bookings Oct. 19-20. Plan for likely delays and congestion on available services. Do not check out of accommodation until onward travel is assured. Avoid all protests that may materialize. Heed instructions from authorities.