Protests In Rome Over Austerity Measures

05:19

December 18, 2013

Demonstrators gather in Piazza del Popolo square to protest against the government's austerity measures in Rome, Dec. 18, 2013. (Gregorio Borgia/AP) — Demonstrators gather in Piazza del Popolo square to protest against the government's austerity measures in Rome today. (Gregorio Borgia/AP)

The economic crisis in Italy has led to protests throughout the country this week. In medieval piazzas and out on the highways, truck drivers, students, workers and people without jobs have been venting their anger at the state of the country.

Italians say they've been ground down by years of austerity measures, and they're furious at what they see as their corrupt and failing politicians. Today they brought their protest to the capital, Rome.

The BBC's Alan Johnston was there and brings us this report.

Guest

Alan Johnston, Rome correspondent for BBC News. He tweets @AlanJohnstonBBC.

This segment aired on December 18, 2013.