Protests against the cost of living in Milan turn violent

Protests against the rising cost of living in Milan, Italy, have ended in violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. Over the weekend, police used tear gas and water cannons in response to masked individuals throwing stones and other objects during demonstrations attended by more than 5,000 people. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reacted to the events, saying she will hold an emergency security meeting against the “hooligans” who have caused chaos in the city.

Postxronika.az reports with reference to the BBC that more than 200 people were detained during the unrest, and there are reports of injuries. The city prosecutor’s office has requested remand measures for individuals accused of vandalism and resisting the police. Against the backdrop of the riots spreading to neighboring cities as well, the head of government called on political rivals to adopt a unified position against incidents of violence.

A wave of social protests led by young people in European countries is already reaching many central cities. Disruptions to public order and damage to public property prompt state bodies to tighten their security measures. Experts note the importance of social dialogue for preventing such mass unrest driven by economic difficulties.