Public Transport Strike:
On July 7, Italy will experience a nationwide strike by local public transport workers. The strike, organized by various unions, aims to address disputes over pay, work safety, and working hours. The strike is expected to disrupt services including buses, trams, and subways across the country indianaupdates.com, with some regions providing limited services (Crisis24).
Heatwave Alert:
Italy’s health ministry has issued an orange alert for high temperatures affecting 17 cities, including Rome. The alert comes as a heatwave is set to push temperatures to around 35 degrees Celsius. Citizens and tourists are advised to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated (Wanted in Rome).
Venice Tourist Tax:
Starting in 2024, Venice has introduced a new tourist tax of €5 per person per day for day-trippers. This measure aims to manage the impact of tourism on the city. Exemptions are available for children under 14, people with disabilities, and those staying overnight in Venice (Untold Italy).
Political Scandal:
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is addressing a scandal involving the youth wing of her party, Fratelli d’Italia. Members of the youth wing were filmed making racist and anti-Semitic remarks, leading to significant backlash and calls for accountability within the party (Wanted in Rome).
Travel Updates:
Starting in late 2024, the European Union will implement the Entry/Exit System (EES), requiring biometric tests such as fingerprints and facial photographs for third-country nationals entering Italy. Additionally, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be introduced in early 2025, requiring travelers from certain countries to obtain authorization before entering the EU (Untold Italy).
These developments highlight a range of political, social, and environmental issues currently affecting Italy, impacting both residents and visitors alike.