Italy: Farmers' protests to continue on major roads and in city centers nationwide through early February /update 1

Agricultural activist groups and farming unions will likely continue to protest on major roads and in urban centers nationwide through early February. Organizers are denouncing government environmental policies that will impact the agricultural sector. Farmers have formed convoys of slow-moving agricultural vehicles on major routes, including intercity and rural highways, as well as in some city centers. Separate groups have formed multiple static roadblocks on motorways nationwide. Many of the demonstrations are small and spontaneous but still cause significant road travel disruptions. Protests are taking place across all regions including in Sardinia.

Protests may escalate in the coming days. In the event that farmers' groups adopt tactics used in Belgium and Germany, protest activity may also target border crossings and ports, thereby creating disruptions to freight operations.

Heightened security is likely near all demonstrations. Transport disruptions will likely occur in areas targeted by protesters. Road travel disruptions are possible at short notice on major highways throughout Italy and on highways entering affected cities on protest days as slow-moving tractors make their way to rally sites. While violence is not anticipated, low-level scuffles between police and protesters are possible.