Leadership change at the top of the USL Pensioners’ Federation. Antonella Marani is the new secretary, taking over from Luigi Maria Belisardi, who steps down after leading the organization in recent years but will remain on the executive board, continuing to work for the Federation.
The handover took place on the morning of Monday, September 15, during the third congress of the USL Pensioners’ Federation. The meeting was also attended by Secretary of State for Health Massimo Andrea Ugolini, who expressed his willingness to look further into the issues raised by pensioners.
And according to USL, there are quite a few issues on the table. Starting with the cost of living and pensions, which the union believes should be adjusted in line with wages. Belisardi noted that in recent years inflation and rising prices have hit the elderly hardest, particularly those living alone. Some, he explained, cut back on food and even on their own health just to be able to pay rent.
The housing issue also remains a pressing concern. «It’s unacceptable that, to this day, no concrete solution has been found — if anything, the problem is getting worse», Belisardi stressed, also recalling the eviction notices received by several elderly residents.
Another major issue is loneliness. USL is following the co-housing project with interest and is also relying on its own initiatives to create opportunities for social connection, from the small library opened at its new headquarters to trips organized by the Federation.
The congress also delivered a very simple message: the elderly should not be seen as a burden, but as a resource. «The young may run fast, but the old know the way», one speaker recalled during the debate.
It will now be up to Antonella Marani to carry the work forward. The new secretary immediately pointed to one path to follow: working together with the other Pensioners’ Federations. «I’ve long believed that’s the right path, and I’m truly glad my mandate is starting this way», she explained.
The handover was concluded by USL Secretary General Francesca Busignani, who thanked Belisardi for his work and expressed full confidence in Marani, who has been active within the union for many years.
