Referees now have their own union. The union was founded on the principle that “it is no longer acceptable for referees, who are central figures in sports and often exposed to physical and verbal risks, to work without adequate protection and recognition.” This statement was made by Sabina Di Marco, national secretary, and Riccardo Saccone, general secretary of Slc (Communication Workers` Union) within the Cgil union, on the occasion of the launch of the Referees` section.
The union`s goal is to “ensure safe, dignified, and regulated work for all referees, especially the younger ones.” While Legislative Decree 36/2021 recognizes referees as workers, they frequently lack the rights granted to other professions. The absence of a collective bargaining agreement covering roles, pay, and safety results in precarious working conditions and significant difficulties, including a lack of social security contributions, insurance coverage, and legal protection against assaults or incidents.
Key demands voiced by the union include fair minimum wages, social security and work injury insurance coverage (like INAIL), full recognition of refereeing as a professional activity, protection from physical and verbal abuse, and support for continuous training and career development opportunities. These objectives are grounded in Article 33 of the Italian Constitution, which recognizes the educational and social value of sports.
“It`s time for those who uphold the rules to finally have their own rights recognized,” stated Di Marco and Saccone. They added that the formation of the referees` section within Slc strengthens the principle of collective worker representation and the fundamental role of workers in society, aligning with the broader aims of the Cgil union`s campaigns.