'The Europe we want': Italy's Democratic Party launches EU elections manifesto

The Italian opposition is trying hard to cut through in an election cycle where the country's ruling right-wing parties are hoping for major gains.

Transcript

00:00 "The Europe we want" is the slogan chosen by the Democratic Party for its political manifesto.

00:07 In a press conference held on Monday at the Foreign Press Association in Rome,

00:11 the party leader Elie Schlein officially launched the party's European election campaign.

00:15 The aim is to promote social justice policies in a number of sectors.

00:19 According to Elie Schlein, Europe should become more social and lead the green transition.

00:24 These are some of the main takeaways from the Democratic Party's political programme

00:29 as outlined by its leader ahead of the European elections.

00:32 Raising the minimum wage and improving Italy's health system are also among the main priorities,

00:38 together with calling for more solidarity on migration in Europe.

00:41 And the warning Elie Schlein sent on Monday is very similar to the one already sent at Europe's socialist campaign launch.

00:47 We are the only link to the advance of the European right.

00:51 I am the one who asks the people how far they are willing to go to flee from the nationalists.

01:00 They are betraying their own political tradition.

01:04 Schlein also highlighted the need to ensure equal rights for non-traditional families

01:09 and continue the fight against gender-based violence.

01:12 It means to continue fighting against gender violence.

01:15 I found it very significant and important.

01:19 It is a great step forward to the vote last week in the European Parliament

01:25 which granted women the right to choose their own body.

01:30 Abortion is a fundamental right, still too much denied in this country despite the 194 law.

01:37 And while the Democratic Party leader hopes to gain more support,

01:41 she acknowledged that the main challenge could be low voter turnout.

01:45 Giorgia Orlandi, for EURONEWS, in Rome.

01:49 (audience applauding)