Thousands of people in Rome protested the European Union’s rearmament plan in response to a call from the Five Star Movement. The demonstration, starting at Piazza Vittorio and moving to the Fori Imperiali, saw an unexpectedly high turnout, with estimates reaching up to 100,000 attendees. Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte led the march and criticized Giorgia Meloni’s government, as well as the rearmament plan proposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Conte condemned the 800 billion euro plan as a waste and accused Meloni of approving it without a proper mandate.
The protest aimed to establish a solid opposition to the current right-wing government, with members of the Green-Left Alliance and the Democratic Party participating. Conte’s call for an alternative government that opposes Meloni’s policies resonated with attendees, who expressed concerns about Italy’s isolation in Europe and lack of strategies in dealing with tariffs. The absence of centrist parties like Azione and Italia Viva was notable, indicating a divide in opinions within the opposition. Despite internal disagreements, the demonstration was seen as a significant step towards building a united front against the current government.
Five-Star Movement Vice-President Paola Taverna and former Chamber President Roberto Fico also delivered speeches at the rally, emphasizing the importance of democracy and peace-building. Protesters decried the rearmament plan as a threat to the future of all citizens and called for resistance against such policies. Members of the Green-Left Alliance expressed hope for further mobilizations and efforts to bring about positive change in Italy. The demonstration was seen as an important opportunity to unite various opposition groups and pave the way for a potential government alternative in the future.
Criticism of the protest came from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who questioned the motives of the Five Star Movement in opposing the rearmament plan. Tajani argued that security should be the priority of politics, emphasizing the need to defend borders, families, economy, and industries. He highlighted the importance of cybersecurity in protecting citizens’ data and industrial secrets, suggesting that modern infrastructure is crucial for ensuring national security. Tajani’s remarks reflected a stance that prioritizes defensive measures over offensive military spending, contrasting with Conte’s denouncement of the rearmament plan.
The divide in opinions regarding security policies and military spending underscores the complexity of the political landscape in Italy. While the rally in Rome signaled a united front against the rearmament plan and the current right-wing government, internal disagreements among opposition parties suggest challenges in forming a cohesive alternative. The differing perspectives on security and defense highlight the need for constructive dialogue and collaboration to address pressing issues facing the country. Moving forward, finding common ground and building consensus will be crucial in shaping Italy’s political future and addressing key challenges at the national and European levels.
