On April 12, 2025, a significant regional conference titled “Sistema integrato di Protezione Civile Regionale: un nuovo modello di coordinamento del volontariato” took place at the Pontificio Collegio Leoniano in Anagni. This event, promoted by the Corpo Regionale di Intervento Rapido (COREIR), gathered institutional representatives, operators, and volunteers united by a common goal: to enhance efficiency, timeliness, and collaboration among various territorial entities in emergency situations.
The Mayor of Anagni, Daniele Natalia, welcomed the authorities present, expressing the city's pride in hosting such a strategically important event for the region. The elegant setting of the Collegio Leoniano, located in the heart of the city known for its papal history, added a solemn and institutional atmosphere to the initiative, providing ideal spaces for discussions among experts, administrators, and volunteers from across Lazio.
The conference focused on presenting a new model for coordinating volunteer work within the Regional Integrated Civil Protection System. The aim was to create a more cohesive, efficient, and modern network. Special attention was given to the synergy between local authorities and volunteers, continuous training, the adoption of advanced technologies, and the optimization of operational logistics. These aspects are deemed essential for ensuring a quick and organized response in the event of natural or anthropogenic emergencies.
What stood out most was the practicality of the presentations, which included not only theoretical discussions but also numerous firsthand experiences shared by those who dedicate their time and energy to the common good. Applause resonated throughout the venue as volunteers recounted their stories, and technical interventions clearly and passionately illustrated the advantages of an effective integrated system. Once again, COREIR proved to be a key player in the landscape of Civil Protection in Lazio, placing emphasis on the value of coordination and collaboration.
Meanwhile, another conference in Anagni focused on labor issues in anticipation of the referendums scheduled for June 8 and 9, 2025. This event brought together politicians, union representatives, and concerned citizens, revealing a bleak picture marked by fatal accidents, discrimination, precarious employment, and exploitation. The statistics are alarming: in Italy, there were 1,090 workplace fatalities in 2024, averaging three deaths per day. This grim reality is echoed in Lazio, where there were 107 deaths in 2024 and 65 already in 2025. In the province of Frosinone, eight workers have lost their lives since the beginning of this year.
The conference, held in the historic Sala della Ragione of Anagni's town hall, was linked to the campaign for labor referendums but also served to provide an overview of the labor situation in Lazio and Frosinone. Participants emphasized that workers' rights often remain unfulfilled. The event was attended by notable figures, including Gianmarco Capogna from the political party Possibile, Sara Battisti from the Democratic Party, and Giuseppe Massafra, the General Secretary of CGIL for Frosinone and Latina.
Capogna opened the discussion by stating, “Our Constitution is beautiful, but it is often not applied, especially regarding the protection of labor rights. I also think about the issue of health and environmental protection.” He highlighted the discrimination faced by women in the workforce, noting that they earn an average of approximately €15,500 per year, significantly less than their male counterparts. Capogna further criticized the exploitation of workers, citing instances where jobs pay as little as €3 per hour.
Sara Battisti passionately argued for viewing safety as an investment rather than a cost, reminding attendees that workplace injuries also burden the healthcare system. She criticized the current government led by Rocca for attempting to dismantle labor protections established under the previous administration. Battisti recalled the safety law passed in 2021 and various initiatives aimed at promoting safer workplaces.
Matteo Orfini, a member of parliament from the Democratic Party, emphasized that there are no easy solutions to workplace safety issues. He called for greater security measures and training for both workers and employers, highlighting the need for more stringent oversight. Orfini lamented that the government often ignores their pleas for reform.
Franco Mari from Alleanza Verdi e Sinistra also voiced concerns about the rise of precarious employment, which he argued leads to a workforce that is more vulnerable to accidents. He insisted that businesses must prioritize safety over cutting costs to prevent poverty among workers. Mari advocated for stricter laws against companies that fail to comply with safety regulations.
Ilaria Fontana, representing the Five Star Movement, reiterated her party's commitment to labor reforms, referencing their efforts to establish a minimum income and combat the controversial Jobs Act. Giuseppe Massafra, wrapping up the conference, noted that in Italy, labor is often undervalued compared to the financial market. He criticized the excessive reliance on subcontracting, which disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including migrants.
As the discussions concluded, the emphasis was clear: the progressive forces must unite to address these pressing labor issues. The upcoming referendums are seen as a crucial opportunity to advocate for workers’ rights and push for a more equitable society. The conference underscored the urgent need for collective action in response to the ongoing challenges faced by workers in Italy.
