Large demonstrations took place in Italy and Spain on Saturday as thousands protested wars in the Middle East while also voicing opposition to controversial judicial reforms proposed by the government of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The protests come ahead of a national referendum scheduled for March 22–23 on changes to Italy’s judicial system. The vote has become a key political test for Meloni’s administration, which faces national elections next year, and has intensified tensions between the government and its critics.
In Rome, demonstrators gathered in the city center carrying red trade union banners alongside Palestinian and Cuban flags. Protesters chanted slogans calling on the government to resign before the rally concluded peacefully.
Participants linked their opposition to the reforms with wider international concerns. Some accused the United States and Israel of escalating conflict in the Middle East and warned that ongoing military operations could further destabilize the region.
Meloni has defended the proposed reforms, arguing that they are necessary to address long-standing delays in Italy’s court system and to restore public confidence in the administration of justice. Critics, however, say the measures could undermine judicial independence and expose judges to political pressure.
Meanwhile, anti-war protests also took place across Spain, including in Madrid, where thousands rallied to demand an end to the conflict in the Middle East and expressed solidarity with civilians affected by the fighting.
Similar demonstrations were reported earlier in the week in Athens and other cities across Greece, reflecting growing international opposition to the ongoing war.
