Italian Workers Stage Nationwide Strike Over Meloni Government's Budget Plans

Protests disrupt public services as unions demand wage increases and oppose proposed spending cuts amid rising inflation.

Italian unions organized a 24-hour general strike targeting the budget proposals of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing government.
Key sectors affected include public transportation, schools, hospitals, and state broadcaster Rai, though airports remained operational.
Protesters demand higher wages, increased pensions, and greater funding for healthcare and education to address inflation-related pressures.
Italy's national debt, projected to reach €3 trillion this year, has constrained government spending, fueling disagreements with unions.
Clashes between demonstrators and police occurred in Turin, with reports of eggs and stones thrown and police responding with batons.