Italian leaders call for reforms to tackle inequality and strengthen health care

Salvatore Mattia, a representative of Socialismo XXI in Puglia, urged a reformist agenda aimed at narrowing the economic gap between northern and southern Italy, guaranteeing equal rights to services and health care, and improving conditions for precarious workers, low‑wage earners, the unemployed and young people. He invoked the legacy of historic socialist figures and stressed the need for concrete policies that translate democratic values into tangible benefits for citizens.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, president of the Italian Episcopal Conference, addressed the same themes at the 60th‑anniversary gathering of the Capodarco community. He emphasized that caring for the whole person goes beyond treating disease, highlighting the importance of community, dignity, and comprehensive health support. Zuppi also spoke on the war in Ukraine, called for dialogue and peace, and criticised the imbalance between military spending and investment in health and welfare services.