The Italian labor union UIL has established an immigration coordination body on the island of Sardinia to protect the rights of foreign nationals working in key sectors on the island.
The Sardinia section of the Italian labor union UIL announced on December 2 that it had established an immigration coordination body on the island to protect the rights of foreign nationals working in key sectors on the island. Leading it will be Gaia Garau, who will be coordinating activities at the regional level.
"We want to change the narrative since immigration is not a problem: it is a decisive resource for the present and the future of Sardinia and the country," said regional secretary general Fulvia Murru and national union secretary Santo Biondo at the end of a meeting in Cagliari for the establishment of the new body.
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Foreign nationals almost 4 percent of Sardinia's population
A total of almost 60,000 foreign nationals live in Sardinia, accounting for almost 4 percent of the population. Many are female and play an essential role in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, services, construction, and family assistance."Without their presence, entire sectors would be unable to function.
However, too many workers still suffer from being in irregular conditions with lower salaries, exploitation, precariousness, and lack of protection," said Murru and Biondo.
The new coordinating body will be tasked with strengthening UIL and Workers' Protection and Assistance Institute (ITAL, with national official Antonio Duranti present at the meeting) services, offering legal and contractual assistance, countering under-the-table work, supporting inclusion, and building a stable network with government institutions and local associations.
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'Essential contribution against depopulation'
UIL wants the body to be a "stable reference point able to offer immediate solutions, competence, and protection for those arriving and working here."
There is also a demographic emergency. "Sardinia is one of the regions suffering the most from depopulation," said union leaders Murru and Biondo.
"The contribution of foreign nationals is essential to keep the territory alive, support services, and give continuity to productive sectors. Recognising their rights means working for the future of the entire community," they added.
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