Italy's Strict New Vaccine Mandate Prompts Protests

Italy's COVID-19 vaccine mandate, believed to be among the strictest government COVID-19 mandates in the world, has been met by protests. The newest rule requires all private and public employees in Italy to show proof of vaccination, a negative test result, or recovery from COVID-19 in the past six months with what's known as a "Green Pass." Workers could be fined up to 1,500 euros, or roughly $1,750, for failing to comply with the new rule. Hundreds of port workers in the northeastern city of Trieste protested the rule over the weekend, and hundreds more attended an anti-mandate demonstration in Florence. Last week, thousands of people marched in Rome earlier this month in opposition of government mandates. 

The news was covered across the spectrum, but given less attention by U.S. media than domestic issues. Reports on all sides highlighted how people are upset that the government won't cover the cost of testing swabs, which unvaccinated people will need to use frequently to avoid fines. Right-rated outlets tended to offer more quotes from people protesting the mandate. Some coverage from left-rated sources framed anti-mandate protests in Italy as a product of conspiracy theories.