The CGIL and UIL unions have announced a general strike on November 29 against the Meloni government's budget, marking their third consecutive year of protest.

They argue the budget fails to address key issues like wage and pension increases and funding for public services.

However, the CISL union, led by Luigi Sbarra, has distanced itself from the strike, viewing the budget more positively and criticizing the strike as ideologically driven.

Sbarra suggests that such actions weaken the symbolic power of strikes and alienate workers from unions.

The government has called for talks with the unions, but CGIL and UIL remain firm unless their demands are met.

Meanwhile, the Italian economy shows signs of stagnation, with zero growth reported in the third quarter of 2024.