Marco Barbieri, the General Secretary of Confcommercio, voiced his concerns regarding the violent protests that erupted during the Winter Olympics in Milan. The protests, characterized by clashes with law enforcement and stone-throwing, took place just a day before the opening ceremony, which was expected to attract 2.5 billion viewers worldwide. Thankfully, no injuries or damages were reported, and Barbieri expressed gratitude towards the prefect and police for their efforts in ensuring safety and preserving business operations.

Despite the peaceful intentions of many protesters, Barbieri criticized the descent into violence, arguing that it undermines the legitimate right to protest and poses a risk to public safety. He described such chaos as a lack of respect for Milan, Italy, and everyone who has made sacrifices to showcase the country during an internationally significant event. Barbieri highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of the peaceful demonstration and protecting the image of Milan, especially given its global attention during the Olympics.

The severities of the protests led to stringent restrictions and designated red zones around the city throughout the previous week, as authorities worked to manage the situation. These measures underline the delicate balance between allowing free expression and ensuring public safety, especially in the context of an event that holds immense significance for both local pride and international exposure. Barbieri’s remarks resonate with many in the community who are wary of the repercussions of such violence against the backdrop of a major global event.