Italy's parliament has approved legislation that formally recognizes femicide as a crime, carrying a penalty of life imprisonment. The measure passed in the Lower Chamber with 237 votes, receiving bipartisan support from both the center-right majority and center-left opposition. This vote occurred on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Legislative Background
The law, supported by Premier Giorgia Meloni's conservative government, was introduced following a series of incidents involving violence against women within Italy. It includes strengthened provisions addressing gender-based crimes such as stalking and non-consensual sharing of intimate images.
Public discussion surrounding violence against women in Italy intensified, partly influenced by cases such as the 2023 murder of university student Giulia Cecchettin.
Government Statements and Actions
Premier Meloni commented on additional government initiatives, stating:
- Funding for anti-violence centers and shelters has been doubled.
- An emergency hotline has been promoted.
- Innovative education and awareness-raising activities have been implemented.
Meloni indicated that these actions represent initial steps and further efforts are required.
Opposition Perspectives
While supporting the law's passage, the center-left opposition articulated that the government's approach primarily addresses the criminal aspects of the issue. They contend that economic and cultural disparities related to gender-based violence remain unaddressed by the current legislation.
Statistics and Education Debate
Italy's statistics agency, Istat, reported 106 femicides in 2024, with 62 of these incidents perpetrated by current or former partners.
A debate is ongoing regarding the introduction of sexual and emotional education in schools. A proposed government bill would prohibit such education for elementary students and mandate explicit parental consent for its inclusion in high school curricula. The ruling coalition stated this measure aims to safeguard children. Conversely, opposition parties and activists have criticized the proposal.
Elly Schlein, head of Italy's Democratic Party, highlighted that Italy is among seven European countries where sex and relationship education is not compulsory in schools. Schlein advocated for its mandatory inclusion across all school levels, asserting that 'repression is not enough without prevention, which can only start in schools.'