Italy: Major unions call for nationwide general strike May 19-20

Major unions in Italy call for nationwide strike May 19-20. Transport and business disruptions, demonstrations likely.

Event

Several major unions in Italy have called for a nationwide general strike May 20 to denounce government military expenditure relating to the war in Ukraine and demand that funding goes to benefits and wage increases instead. The action will impact both the public and private sectors, likely resulting in business and transport disruptions nationwide; however, participation will vary by sector. Some sectors begin strikes May 19; residual disruptions could continue to impact some services May 21. Related demonstrations will be staged in town and city centers.

Rail unions have confirmed their participation in the strike and will cease most operations 21:00 May 19-21:00 May 20, prompting delays and cancellations to certain Trenitalia and Trenord services. However, Italian law requires that a minimum guaranteed level of service be provided 06:00-09:00 and 18:00-21:00, though trains operating during these periods may be crowded. Trenitalia anticipates long-distance trains to operate normally.

Regional public transport workers will also join the strike affecting bus, tram, and metro services across the country; minimum guaranteed service requirements mean that most operators will conduct regular services during the morning and evening rush hours, though exact times vary between operators. Unions representing air transport workers will strike through the day; the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) has confirmed that flights remain operational during guaranteed periods between 07:00-10:00 and 18:00-21:00. Maritime transport and shipping services are also likely to be impacted by the strike.

Some government agencies and educational facilities may close or offer reduced services May 20. Emergency medical treatment will likely remain available, though routine appointments may be suspended due to possible staff shortages. Staff at private companies may also participate in the strike resulting in business disruptions and closures.

Related demonstrations are confirmed in the following locations:

Rome: Piazza della Repubblica, 10:30
Bologna: Piazza XX Settembre, 10:30
Genoa: Largo Alessandro Pertini, 10:30
Milan: Largo Cairoli, 09:30
Palermo: Piazza Massimo, 10:00
Turin: Piazza Arturo Graf, 10:00

Further demonstrations are likely in additional towns and city centers nationwide; likely locations include outside government offices and in central squares. Additional police will likely deploy to monitor any actions; related security measures may prompt localized movement disruptions in protest areas. The gatherings will likely remain peaceful, though isolated clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Confirm all transport reservations, as well as business and medical appointments May 19-21, including at public health centers and other government facilities. Check local media sources for up-to-date information on regional public transport disruptions. Consider alternative transport options to mitigate travel disruptions; allow extra time to reach destinations. Anticipate possible shipping delays if routing goods via Italy. Avoid any demonstrations as a routine security precaution; leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.