Rome, Italy — As the June 8–9 referendums draw near, the Italian General Confederation of Labor (CGIL) is spearheading a national campaign to encourage citizens to make their voices heard at the polls.
The referendums will address five critical questions related to labor rights, justice, and social equality, making this a defining moment for Italy’s future.
CGIL General Secretary Maurizio Landini has underscored the gravity of participation, urging citizens not to underestimate the power of their vote. “Not voting is a serious political mistake,” he said. “Voting is an act of freedom and responsibility.
It’s about reclaiming the power to shape our lives and putting rights back at the center of politics. Those who call for abstention are not just wrong—they are denying the chance for real change. Democracy only works when people participate.”
The campaign has attracted widespread support from a diverse coalition of political parties, associations, artists, academics, and civil society leaders. Together, they aim to counteract the lack of media coverage and public awareness that could overshadow the importance of this referendum.
Political leaders from across the spectrum have raised concerns about potential low voter turnout. Democratic Party Secretary Elly Schlein emphasized the need for collective action to inform and mobilize citizens, while Nicola Fratoianni of Sinistra Italiana criticized parties that remain silent or openly encourage abstention.
Riccardo Magi of Più Europa accused the government of attempting to suppress the democratic process, pointing out that many Italians are eager to vote but remain unaware of the referendum date.
Giuseppe Conte, leader of the Five Star Movement (M5S), also called for widespread participation, warning that failure to vote would allow inequality to persist and decision-making to remain concentrated in the hands of a few.
“Those who want stronger protections at work must go to the polls,” he said. “If not, the same few will continue to decide everything, and inequality will keep growing.”
CGIL is committing to its efforts until the final day, organizing initiatives nationwide to educate voters and encourage participation.
“By voting ‘Yes’ to the five referendum questions on June 8 and 9, we can end job insecurity, workplace deaths, and unfair dismissals,” Landini said. “This is about restoring dignity and rights to the center of our society—because change starts with voting.”
The referendums represent a crucial opportunity for Italians to demand a fairer future, and CGIL is determined to ensure that no one misses this chance to shape the direction of the country.
