Tens of thousands of students and workers in Italy take to the streets to demand relief for education and living costs

(Deutsche Welle Chinese website) Tens of thousands of students and workers marched across Italy on Friday (October 30), demanding increased education funding and relief from the rising cost of living.

Previously, students had been camping in tents and occupying the school for weeks. This general strike once again brought workers to the streets with them.

Demonstrations were held in dozens of cities including Rome, Milan, Turin, Bologna, Genoa and Naples. Because previous protests had turned into riots, a large police presence was deployed.

Why are students and workers protesting?

Demonstrators criticized Prime Minister Meloni's right-wing government for low wages, rising fuel prices and military spending. Students are demanding more funding for schools and universities.

In Rome, university student Beatrice Chilelli said students were "reaching the breaking point."

"They can't afford the high tuition fees and rent...the burden falls on their parents' shoulders," the 21-year-old student told AFP.

The Universal Trade Union Union (USB) called a general strike, with truck drivers, taxi drivers and farmers joining the protest. There was limited impact on public transport on Friday morning.

Thousands of people marched from Rome's Termini train station past the Colosseum, with two tractors and a taxi in the procession. "We need more houses, not bombs!" a group of people shouted.

Did the protest turn violent?

In Turin, demonstrators had minor clashes with riot police as the march began. As of midday, there were no reports of major clashes.

In Milan, marches avoided the city center. There, rioters looted stores, vandalized property and clashed with police following a cost-of-living demonstration two weeks ago.

Authorities have also stepped up protection of landmarks such as the Colosseum and Milan Cathedral.

The student protest gained momentum from similar movements in France and Spain. Teachers, retirees and other workers also joined Friday's rally.