Italy Introduces Strict Covid Rules for Workers Amid Pushback

(Bloomberg) -- Prime Minister Mario Draghi’s government introduced some of Europe’s toughest Covid rules for workers on Friday, sparking scattered protests across Italy.

Demonstrations slowed transit at some key hubs. In Trieste, groups of workers arranged an illegal strike, and in Genoa, protesters blocked access to one of the city’s main streets. Overall, though, disruptions were minimal as of midday, with public transportation operating normally.

From Oct. 15, anyone entering an Italian workplace, public or private, must present a digital “Green Pass” or face a fine. The pass can be obtained after vaccination or after testing negative for the virus, and employers will be responsible for checking certificates. 

The aim is to encourage more people to get vaccinated ahead of winter. France and Greece have also introduced tough new rules for workers, gambling that people will support them to avoid further lockdowns and extra strain on their healthcare systems.

The French government requires medical workers to get vaccinated, and anyone who refuses to comply risks suspension without pay. Athens demands that all private and public sector workers without proof of vaccination or recently recovered from the virus take a test every week. Spain and Germany, in contrast, do not have specific requirements for workers.

Earlier this year, Italy became the first European country to make vaccination compulsory for health care workers. A green pass is also mandatory in restaurants, theaters, gyms and other settings, as well as on long-distance buses, trains or flights. About 80% of the population is already vaccinated. 

The threat to the supply chain will continue, with demonstrations expected later on Friday and in coming days, both in support of and against the new measure. Much of the focus has been on ports, where there’s a higher-than-average rate of non-vaccinated workers.

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