Turin, Italy – Thousands of people marched in Turin today in a national protest against the December 18, 2025, eviction of the historic Askatasuna social center, a long-standing left-wing/autonomous space in the Vanchiglia neighborhood that had operated for nearly 30 years.
Participation
- Organizers reported up to 50,000 participants, with people arriving from across Italy and abroad (including France).
- Other estimates ranged from 15,000–20,000.
- The march featured multiple processions starting from Porta Nuova, Porta Susa, and Palazzo Nuovo (an occupied university building), converging in the city center and moving toward the former Askatasuna site on Corso Regina Margherita.
- Participants included trade unions, students, No Tav activists, and antagonist/anarchist groups; notable attendees included cartoonist Zerocalcare.
Events and Violence
The demonstration began peacefully but escalated into violent clashes in the late afternoon/evening, particularly near the evicted building.
- A group of protesters (described as black bloc/antagonist elements) deviated from the main route, leading to confrontations with police.
- Protesters threw stones, paper bombs, fireworks, flares, bottles, and other objects.
- Police responded with tear gas, water cannons, and barriers to prevent access to the site.
- A police armored vehicle was set on fire.
- Injuries: Reports vary—11–30 police officers injured (including one isolated officer attacked with kicks, punches, and a hammer to the leg); some protesters also hurt.
- Arrests: At least 10 reported.
- Other incidents: A Rai TV crew was allegedly threatened/assaulted.
Reactions
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the violence as “serious and unacceptable,” calling the perpetrators “enemies of the State” who attacked public order rather than expressing legitimate dissent. She emphasized the need for judicial action without leniency.
- President Sergio Mattarella expressed solidarity with the injured officers.
- Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi and others labeled it organized violence.
- Some left-leaning sources and participants framed the core protest as defense of social spaces and opposition to government policies, while condemning the escalation.
The city saw heavy security measures, including road closures and checks at transport hubs. Investigations into the clashes and arrests continue as of early February 1, 2026.
