Around 6,000 members of Italy's armed forces and security services marched through Rome on Saturday, demanding higher pay, better pensions and stronger workplace protections.
The demonstration brought together representatives of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri and Guardia di Finanza in the first joint protest organised by the country's main defence and security unions.
The rally came just days after the government renewed the collective agreement covering around 430,000 military and security personnel. The deal includes a gross monthly pay rise of €188 and a one-off back payment of €2,448, as well as a commitment to open talks on pension reform.
Several unions, including Sinafi, the New Carabinieri Union (NSC), Usami Aeronautica, Itamil and Silmm, refused to sign the agreement, arguing that it does not go far enough to address pay and retirement concerns. They organised Saturday's protest to press the government for further measures.
Marching under the slogan, "Every day we serve Italy. Today we demand respect", protesters carried banners through the streets of Rome.
