President Sergio Mattarella delivered his end-of-year address to the Italian public on December 31, 2023, emphasizing the pressing need for peace and urging the nation to confront its social challenges head-on. This ten-minute speech, broadcast across the nation, served both as a reassurance and as a call to action, addressing Italy's many complex issues amid global turmoil.
Mattarella's speech opened with the strong assertion, "La pace grida la sua urgenza" e deve essere giusta e attenta al rispetto dei diritti umani, mai "sottomissione", making it clear he views peace as imperative. He described Italy's current state as filled with both challenges and opportunities, offering reassurance to citizens about positive trends, such as employment figures and export statistics. Yet, he was equally candid about the dire issues plaguing the nation.
One major focal point was Italy's healthcare crisis. Mattarella highlighted the excessive waiting times for medical treatment, stating many citizens were forced to give up on necessary care, underscoring the nation's obligation to uphold human dignity and health rights.
Another pressing topic addressed was the deteriorated conditions within Italian prisons. He expressed deep concern over the staggering rates of suicide among inmates, indicating these figures reflect unacceptable living conditions. "L'alto numero di suicidi è indice di condizioni inammissibili," he noted, emphasizing the necessity for humane treatment and rehabilitation for those incarcerated.
While discussing patriotism, Mattarella emphasized the importance of commitment and resilience among the Italian people. He elaborated on what he described as the true essence of patriotism, recognizing the dedication of individuals such as emergency medical personnel and educators working under challenging circumstances. He stated, "Patriottismo è quello dei medici dei pronto soccorso," recognizing those actively contributing to society's wellbeing.
Further, he included a thoughtful nod to immigrants, portraying them as integral to the fabric of Italian society: "È patriottismo quello di chi, con origini in altri Paesi, ama l'Italia..." This was his way of emphasizing the importance of inclusion and recognizing diverse contributions to the nation’s identity.
Mattarella did not shy away from condemning the rise of gender-based violence, sharing concern over the increasing incidents of femicides, which he attributed to societal backwardness. He praised the youth movements advocating for change and their refusal to remain silent. His call to action was loud and clear: the issues of violence and rights violations necessitate transformative efforts.
Transitioning from domestic policies to broader global concerns, Mattarella refocused on the theme of military spending. He pointed out the alarming growth of the global military budget, noting it reached $2.443 trillion, which starkly contrasts with funds allocated for climate initiatives. He remarked on the situation as "una sconfortante sproporzione", highlighting the urgent need to prioritize humanitarian and environmental issues over militarization.
Responses to Mattarella's address came swiftly from political figures across Italy. Giuseppe Conte, President of the M5S, echoed his sentiments, stating, "Condivido il richiamo del Presidente Mattarella..." He emphasized the need for renewed civic engagement, particularly as citizens have recently experienced disillusionment with political processes. Conte accused powerful economic interests of manipulating politics, rather than serving the common good.
Elly Schlein, Secretary of the PD, also chimed in, stating, "Il presidente della Repubblica Sergio Mattarella ci ha ricordato quanto sia urgente costruire un Paese più giusto..." Schlein lauded Mattarella’s focus on social responsibility and the integral role of public engagement as Italy grapples with pressing socioeconomic issues.
Mattarella ended his poignant address by engaging directly with the citizens, urging every Italian to take part actively and responsibly, stating simply, "Tocca a tutti noi trasformare la speranza in realtà." This call for collective participation echoed throughout the speech, blending the themes of hope, responsibility, and the pursuit of justice.
His remarks on the unending conflicts around the world painted war as unforgiving and tragic. The stark image of war’s impact, reflected through deeply personal stories of loss, including the death of innocents caught up amid turmoil, raised the emotional stakes of his message.
Overall, Mattarella's address was not just another political discourse; it was a heartfelt invitation for Italians to reflect, engage, and act. All citizens, he argued, have the potential to translate hope for peace and justice not only through passive waiting but through collective determination and action.