Pharmacies closed today July 1st for the strike, unions mobilized everywhere

Morning of protests in Rome for workers of private pharmacies, who today joined a four-hour strike . The decision to cross their arms comes after weeks of tension on the contractual front, fueled by an economic proposal deemed insufficient by union representatives.

The Roman protest is part of a broader national mobilization , which for weeks has involved those who work in private pharmacies. Many have chosen to participate in the demonstration organized in front of the headquarters of the trade association (Federfarma), asking for a contract that takes into account the role and daily responsibilities . Meanwhile, from north to south, initiatives are multiplying: every city has its moments of confrontation and dissent.

Of course, there is no shortage of practical advice for those who need medicines during the strike: find an open pharmacy, contact your doctor or, in the most urgent cases, contact emergency services.

Pharmacists strike, demonstration in front of the national headquarters of the owners

In parallel to the strike that will involve the capital area, between 9 and 11 in the morning a picket will be held in Rome , right in front of the national headquarters of the association of pharmacy owners Ferderfarma. The unions complain a bit about what is the general discontent of every worker: responsibilities increase while salaries remain low. "They ask us for more and more services, but we earn less than the clerks", the promoters said.

For them, the position of the current representatives of private pharmacies is light years away from the daily reality and expectations of those who work behind the counter every day. Furthermore, on average, according to platforms such as Indeed and Glassdor, those who work in a private pharmacy earn around 1,450 euros net per month .

A calendar full of initiatives throughout Italy

The protest of July 1st is part of a broader mobilization program started at the beginning of June. The first event was held on June 3rd in Cagliari , with a sit-in in front of the Prefecture. Then, on June 5th, it was Turin 's turn, with a demonstration in front of the regional headquarters of the owners' association.+

On June 20, attention shifted to Bologna , on the 22nd to Ravenna , and on the 26th to Reggio Emilia , where industry operators once again gathered at the headquarters of Federfarma. On June 27, it was Milan's turn, with a demonstration in front of the Lombardy headquarters of the same association.

The protest spreads to other Italian cities

After the Roman meeting, the protest will continue in other cities:

• July 2, Cesena – demonstration in Piazza Amendola from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm;
• July 3, Vicenza – flash mob at 8.30pm in Piazza dei Signori;
• July 4, Modena – picket in front of the local headquarters of the owners' association from 1.30 pm;
• July 4, Belluno – morning demonstration in Piazza Duomo, in front of the Prefecture.

Pharmacies closed: what to do in case of emergency

During strike hours, you may need an urgent medication. In these cases, you can take action.

First of all, the pharmacies on duty remain open even during the protest . To find the closest one, you can check the website of your ASL or call the toll-free number of the region.

If an essential medication is not available, it is worth contacting your doctor , who may suggest an alternative. In the event of a medical emergency , 118 is always the fastest and most reliable reference.

Many pharmacies will give advance notice of their possible participation in the strike by posting a sign outside. Some may remain closed for only a few hours.