Chianciano: Unity is not a value to be reached at all cost, emphasized Elly Schlein, leader of the Democratic Party (PD), as she addressed the national assembly of Green Europe in Chianciano, Tuscany. Schlein asserted that unity becomes a value only when achieved through a coherent project for the opposition.
According to Ansa News Agency, Schlein expressed gratitude towards allies in the Green Left Alliance (AVS) for the “loyal relationship we have built during these months of work” which led to electoral victories in the Emilia Romagna and Umbria regions. She highlighted the successful collaboration that resulted in candidates backed by a broad centre-left alliance becoming governors in these regions. Despite this success, Schlein emphasized that unity should not be pursued at all costs but should focus on coherent projects, defined programs, and shared values.
Furthermore, Schlein addressed the government’s need to respect the right to strike, following a general mobilization called by two of Italy’s mai
n labor unions, CGIL and UIL. She firmly stated, “We tell the government, hands off the right to strike which is enshrined in the Constitution. The voice of millions of workers cannot be stifled.”
In response to the labor actions, Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini expressed his readiness to intervene ahead of 15 scheduled strikes in December. Salvini’s comments came after a general strike had led to the closure of schools and factories, curtailed medical services, and the cancellation of flights, bus, and metro services. He indicated his intention to support citizens during the upcoming protests, including a general strike on December 13th, following a reduction in the transport sector strike from eight hours to four, based on a back-to-work ordinance he signed.
