Students and teachers participate in two large marches in Rome

On 14 November 2008 students and teachers participated in two large marches in Rome, protesting reforms of the country's education system. Security was high for both actions -- a student march and a march by teachers, professors and researchers. Protesters reportedly threatened to stage an unauthorized demonstration near Parliament's lower house Chamber of Deputies, where security was specifically increased. The marches coincided with a strike at universities across the country, and similar protests were staged in other cities, including Cagliari, Milan, Genoa and Palermo. Previous student demonstrations in Italy have been followed by clashes between competing groups of students during the evening hours. Despite the high security, the potential for such disruptions remains. Meanwhile, an unrelated strike by Alitalia personnel continued for a fifth consecutive day on 14 November. At least 60 flights were canceled at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (LIRF/FCO). On previous days, there have been additional delays and cancellations at airports in Milan, but no information regarding this has emerged thus far today.