Ranucci’s “Deportation” Remark Sparks Union Dispute at RAI

A recent comment by Sigfrido Ranucci, host of the Italian investigative journalism program Report, describing the relocation of former temporary workers at RAI (Italy’s national public broadcasting company) as “deportation” has ignited a debate among Italian labor unions. The controversy centers on the fate of journalists who passed the RAI competition but will be transferred to regional editorial offices.

The Controversy Unfolds

Ranucci made the remark although discussing the outcome of a recent RAI competition. Six of the eight collaborators of Report who passed the competition will be reassigned to regional offices, rather than remaining with the program. Ranucci’s use of the term “deportation” drew immediate criticism.

Union Responses

Usigrai, a union representing RAI journalists, issued a statement calling Ranucci’s words “unacceptable.” The union emphasized that journalists assigned to regional offices are entering those positions through selection, not through forced relocation and highlighted the disrespectful nature of the term “deportation” given its historical context. Source

Unirai, another union, also expressed disagreement with Ranucci’s phrasing, stating that the regional offices are not a “concentration camp” and that the term “deportees” is hurtful to those who have experienced actual deportation and to the 800 journalists already working in regional offices.

Ranucci’s Defense

Ranucci defended his statement, acknowledging the legitimacy of criticism regarding the term “deportation” but asserting that the attacks from opposing unions demonstrated his consistency. He maintained that his priority is defending programs like Report and Presa Diretta. He explained that he used the term “deportation” in quotation marks, based on advice from a communications expert. Source

Ranucci also voiced concerns about the RAI selection process, arguing that it prioritizes criteria unrelated to investigative journalism and risks diminishing the quality of established programs like Report by relocating experienced staff.