by InTrieste
A nationwide general strike scheduled for Monday, March 9, is expected to disrupt parts of Italy’s public and private sectors, with possible effects on schools, health services and some public administration offices.
The 24-hour strike, called by several trade unions a day after International Women’s Day, is intended to draw attention to violence and discrimination against women and to advocate for women’s rights in the workplace and society.
The action has been organized by unions including Slai-Cobas, Unione Sindacale Italiana (USI), Unione Sindacale di Base (USB) and Clap (Camere del Lavoro Autonomo e Precario). The strike is expected to affect both public and private workplaces, potentially disrupting education services, health care facilities and government offices.
Transport services may also be affected in some areas. The USI and USB unions said their strike plans do not include the transportation sector, but Slai-Cobas has announced a separate 24-hour strike involving transport workers. As a result, disruptions could vary by region. Minimum service levels will be maintained in accordance with national regulations, and transport companies are expected to provide updates on their websites.
The education sector could see additional disruptions following a separate 24-hour strike called by Federazione Lavoratori della Conoscenza CGIL (Flc-CGIL). The union’s action involves schools, universities, research institutions and vocational training organizations.
School activities may be suspended in some areas, though the extent of disruption will depend on staff participation. Parents and students have been advised to check directly with their schools for updates.
In a statement, the union said the strike aimed to reaffirm women’s rights, including the right to self-determination and gender equality, citing what it described as a resurgence of misogynistic and patriarchal attitudes that contribute to discrimination and violence against women.
The union also criticized the government for what it described as a refusal to introduce sexual and emotional education in schools, despite what it called a sharp increase in cases of abuse and violence involving young people.
Public offices could experience reduced operations on Monday, and services such as catering and cleaning in kindergartens, schools, hospitals and health facilities may also be affected. Emergency medical care, however, will continue to be guaranteed under national rules governing essential services.
