Psychological safety in the workplace: traveling with autostrade per l'Italia
Lasting changes require time and dedication; they do not happen suddenly and, above all, they demand large doses of consistency and cooperation. Changes occur thanks to the many small daily actions we carry out over time; small steps that, one after another, lead to the final destination of the journey.
It is precisely through the metaphor of the journey that Autostrade per l’Italia has narrated its commitment to combating all forms of discrimination and violence in the workplace. This year, in fact, the group has made psychological well-being and the fight against harassment central elements of its Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategy. Thus was born Il Viaggio del Rispetto, aimed at promoting transparency and inclusion within the company.
The project, which unfolded over 14 regional stages starting in March 2025 from the General Management headquarters in Rome, represented an opportunity to raise greater awareness of the Group’s DE&I development plan and to highlight the contribution of the Bilateral Committee for Diversity Inclusion, established with trade unions and active especially on issues related to combating violence in the workplace. Through the journey, it was possible to actively involve employees nationwide on the topics of respect and prevention, thereby gathering input to create a true Manifesto del Rispetto to inspire the adoption of respectful behaviors and language in the workplace.
One of the project's goals, also actively supported by the Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), was to raise employee awareness about verbal, physical, and psychological violence, encouraging the use of available support channels such as the anti-harassment and discrimination help desk, a psychological support service provided for staff including assistance in cases of domestic violence, in addition to corporate reporting channels (whistleblowing).
Il Viaggio del Rispetto allowed us to reach various territories with the direct involvement of the people working within the Group through the opening of a listening channel and collection of testimonies—an essential step to foster strong engagement, stimulate constructive dialogue, and create a support network among colleagues. Listening and participation are the core ingredients of the Journey, with which we engaged people and communities to spread a culture based on inclusion, listening, respect, and active participation—foundations for the full expression of one’s potential.
Unfortunately, this is not the case in all workplaces. According to the annual Observatory on Psychological Well-being in Italian companies by BVA Doxa, 54% of respondents said they left their jobs due to emotional distress related to work; 67% of Italian organizations do not provide psychological support services, even though 73% of employees view such services positively.
In light of these data, Il Viaggio del Rispetto represents an important and dynamic project, not only because it supports the Autostrade Group in spreading a more aware, fair, and equitable corporate culture, but especially because it directly involves employees and encourages them to express how they feel. We aim to create a workplace where no one is left behind or feels misunderstood. This is a constant commitment of the Group and a daily responsibility for each of us.