Thursday, October 22, 2026 - Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has condemned violent demonstrations across Italy after clashes between protesters and police left officers injured and businesses damaged. The unrest erupted on October 17, 2026, with major confrontations reported in Milan, Turin and Bologna.
In Milan, protesters clashed with police near the iconic Piazza del Duomo, while shops were reportedly looted and windows smashed in the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Meloni condemned those responsible, describing them as “gangs of thugs” who exploit demonstrations to create chaos and threaten public safety.
The demonstrations were organised amid growing public frustration over the cost of living, low wages, high rents and concerns about public services. While thousands participated peacefully, violence in several cities disrupted public order and triggered police responses, including the use of water cannons in Milan.
Meloni expressed support for law enforcement officers and urged opposition leaders to clearly condemn the violence. At the same time, Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala acknowledged that protesters had legitimate concerns, while insisting that attacks on police and damage to public property were unacceptable.
The unrest presents a growing challenge for Italian authorities as they seek to maintain public security while addressing the economic pressures driving public discontent. The government faces mounting pressure to prevent further clashes, protect businesses and ensure that peaceful demonstrations remain possible.
With tensions continuing over living costs and working conditions, the response from political leaders could shape the next phase of public debate. The immediate priority remains restoring calm, investigating the violence and addressing the concerns raised by demonstrators without undermining the right to peaceful protest.
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