Italy: Unionized healthcare professionals to hold nationwide strike Dec. 18

Unionized healthcare workers plan to conduct a 24-hour strike across Italy Dec. 18. The purpose of the action is to protest a number of alleged deficiencies in the country's 2024 budget with regard to funding and staffing the public healthcare system. As part of the action, a rally will take place at the Ministry of Health building in Rome from 11:00-13:00; it is unclear how many participants may attend the rally.

Disruptions to healthcare services are likely nationwide during the work stoppage; union leaders assert that physicians, veterinarians, pharmacists, psychologists, biologists, and healthcare administrators will take part in the strike. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the rally site in Rome. Related gatherings at other locations nationwide cannot be ruled out.