Giorgia Meloni faces protests at Mediterranean Games in Taranto

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was met with boos during the opening ceremony of the XX Mediterranean Games in Taranto. The protest occurred at the Iacovone stadium when organizers attempted to thank her for government funding and attention toward the international event.

The protesters, identified as activists from groups such as ‘No Ilva’ and ‘Giustizia per Taranto’, used the moment to voice dissent regarding the industrial situation in the city, specifically concerning the former Ilva steelworks. Some demonstrators carried signs stating ‘Ilva is the killer’.

Meloni responded to the incident by stating she understands the reasons for the dissent and reaffirmed that the government is doing everything in its power regarding the former Ilva plant. The event was also attended by President Sergio Mattarella, who received applause from the crowd.