Protesters on Wednesday showed their disappointment against the government’s decision to introduce the so-called “Green Pass” immunity certificate to access an array of services and leisure activities from August 6.

Protesters on Wednesday showed their disappointment against the government’s decision to introduce the so-called “Green Pass” immunity certificate to access an array of services and leisure activities from August 6.

Hundreds of people gathered in Rome’s Piazza del Popolo at sunset to declare their opposition to the measure, seen as a violation of the people’s freedom to choose their treatment.

Holding banners reading “Green Pass = Blackmail” and “You obey because you hope it will end but it is because you obey that it will never end”, demonstrators peacefully marched in the square, holding candles.

“I am free to choose what is best for my health,” protester Flaminia told Reuters.

The COVID Green Pass is a digital or paper certificate that shows if someone has received at least one jab, has tested negative or has recently recovered from COVID-19.

Last week Health Minister Roberto Speranza told reporters that it would be required in many situations, including to enter sports stadiums, gyms, museums and trade fairs. It would also be needed to be able to eat indoors in restaurants.