ROME

Italy's largest trade union CGIL said on Friday it will hold a general strike on Dec. 12 to protest against the budget law presented by the conservative government led by Premier Giorgia Meloni. 

The financial package includes charges worth more than €11 billion ($12.7 billion) on banks and insurance companies over the next two years. However, it has been criticized by the unions and the center-left opposition for cutting spending on public services, while increasing funds for defense.

In a statement, CGIL detailed a long list of reasons behind the strike, including the request for greater investments in healthcare, education and housing rights. It also asked for strong measures to tackle job insecurity and workplace safety, accusing the government of safeguarding the interests of the rich.

Meloni has defended the budget law as “balanced and fiscally responsible,” noting it included income tax cuts and support for families.

The 2026 budget is worth approximately €18 billion and will be submitted to parliament in the coming weeks, with a final approval expected by end December.

In a post on X, Meloni mocked CGIL for the strike's announcement, asking sarcastically: "On which day of the week will Dec. 12 fall?”

The premier had already criticized a previous strike called by unions in October against the war in Gaza because it also fell on a Friday, accusing unions and activists of seeking a long weekend.

The CGIL nationwide protest will come just two weeks after another general strike, on Nov. 28, called by the two smaller USB and CUB unions, also in protest against the budget.