Thousands in Italy protest against tougher regulations to contain coronavirus
- The ‘green pass’ certificate will allow fully vaccinated citizens to enter restaurants, museums, gyms and swimming pools, among other public places
- On Thursday, Prime Minister Mario Draghi said the requirement was not arbitrary, and that reopening required the continued use of the green pass
Thousands of people in Italy took to the streets on Saturday to oppose the government's health policies, as tougher regulations have been introduced to counter a surge in case numbers.
Some 3,000 people in Rome gathered to protest against what is known as the “green pass,” according to ANSA news agency. The EU's digital coronavirus certificate is also called the green pass in Italy.
There were also demonstrations in Milan, Turin and Naples, according to Corriere della Sera newspaper.
The Italian government has recently tightened measures to combat a rise in infection numbers, with tougher rules applying to indoor activities.
From August 6, people will need proof of vaccination, a negative test result or evidence of recovery from Covid-19 for indoor dining or to enter museums, gyms and swimming pools, among other public places.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Mario Draghi said the requirement was not arbitrary, and that reopening required the continued use of the green pass.