General strike in Italy: chaos in traffic and protests against austerity plans!

General strike in Italy: chaos in traffic and protests against austerity plans!

In Italy, a general strike that began on the night of June 19-20, 2025 is having a massive impact on public life and the transport sector. The strike, which was called by several unions such as Usb, Cub, Sgb, Fisi and Flai, is intended to draw attention to the current austerity plans of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government, which wants to tackle a national debt of almost three trillion euros. Old Greece holidaymakers who want to travel are particularly affected.

The strike measures are wide-ranging, as they affect not only local public transport, but also schools, hospitals and public services. Significant delays and cancellations are to be expected on public transport. According to [Merkur] report that rail connections, especially regional, long-distance and high-speed trains, are affected. Some trips are only guaranteed in the time slots from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Impact on traffic

In air traffic, Ita Airways has already canceled 32 flights as both ground staff and baggage handlers are taking part in the strike. Travelers can only take to the air to a limited extent here: flights should, however, be carried out according to plan during the safe times from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

In addition, the strike also severely affected local public transport. In Rome, for example, no connections are expected from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. or from 8 p.m. There was also a work stoppage by highway employees that began at 10 p.m. on June 19th. This leads to traffic jams and possibly closed toll booths on important transport routes.

Demonstrations and demands

The unions are calling on the government, among other things, to cut defense spending and invest more in health, education, public transport and occupational safety. There are also demands for higher wages and the renewal of collective agreements as well as resistance to privatization and insecure employment relationships. Demonstrations can already be seen in various cities such as Bologna, where 7,000 metal workers blocked a bypass.

In addition, the trade union federation CGIL expresses its criticism of the government's planned cuts, which are considered inadequate. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini had already issued a regulation banning public transport strikes during rush hours, which was upheld by a court.

In view of these developments, travelers are recommended to find out about current connections and possible alternatives from the respective transport companies. The impact of the strike continues to be monitored, meaning passengers and commuters must prepare for unforeseeable disruption affecting businesses in every sector.