Thousands protest in over 40 Italian cities against rising prices and military spending

Rising prices have made life hard for ordinary people in Italy, and there is widespread anger against the government. Thousands took to the streets against the growing cost of living, inadequate public services and continued increases in military spending.

Protests were held in more than 40 cities across the country on Friday, October 30. The protesters' main demand is that the government raise its investment in health and education. They also want spending on defence reduced so that people's basic needs come first.

Students, workers, social organisations and people from different walks of life took part in large numbers. The labour union USB had called a 24-hour nationwide strike. Rising fuel and essential prices have upset household budgets. Protesters also made allegations over the funding of education and health. They demand that the government spend more on people's welfare instead of on war and military preparation.

Tension broke out in some cities during the protests. In Turin, protesters clashed with police, who then used water cannon. In Rome, protesters set rubbish bins on fire. Police stopped some protesters who were trying to advance towards Parliament. Eight people were detained in this connection. In Milan, protesters took over main roads and traffic came to a halt.

About 15,000 workers, students and protesters gathered at the port of Genoa. They also objected to the use of ports for transporting weapons. The protesters demanded that the loss of life and economic damage caused by war be stopped. The protests showed that discontent is growing among Italians over the government's economic and defence policies.

Workers, students, farmers and employees from different sectors joined the 24-hour nationwide strike called by USB. The strike was likely to affect transport and public services as well. The protesters demand that the government attend to people's economic hardships, raise wages, rein in inflation and provide more funds for public services.