Students demonstrate and teachers strike

Violence broke out at a student demonstration in Rome on 29 October 2008. Students staged rallies in various cities across the country during the day to protest a new education law that critics claim will harm the country’s education system. In Rome, the action became violent in the evening after "rightist" students armed with clubs and chains began clashing with other students in Piazza Navona. The students blocked traffic on roads and occupied city squares. Anti-riot police officers responded to the situation, and approximately 15 people were arrested. At least three students and one officer were injured. Similar disruptions were reported in other cities, including Milan and Naples. Meanwhile, a nationwide strike by teachers and university professors is taking place on 30 October over the reforms. Thousands of protesters have gathered in Rome in conjunction with the strike, and additional actions have been organized in more than 100 cities across the country. In Rome, protesters were marching from Piazza della Repubblica to Piazza del Popolo. There is the potential for further disruptions and clashes similar to those on 29 October, particularly during the evening hours.