Italy Takes Bold Step Against Femicide: Life Sentences Now for Gender-Based Violence | CNN

Italy has recently taken a significant step in combatting violence against women. The country’s parliament passed a new law that categorizes femicide as a crime, punishable by life in prison. This important vote happened on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, highlighting the urgency of the issue.

Bipartisan support made this law possible, with both the center-right and center-left backing it. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government pushed for this change in response to a disturbing rise in violence against women, including recent high-profile cases like the tragic murder of university student Giulia Cecchettin.

In a statement, Meloni emphasized actions taken so far, such as increasing funding for anti-violence shelters and introducing emergency hotlines. “We must do much more, every day,” she urged. Yet, some opposition groups argue that simply addressing crime isn’t enough. They insist that deeper cultural and economic issues must also be tackled.

According to Italy’s statistics agency, Istat, there were 106 femicides recorded in 2024—with a troubling 62 committed by partners or ex-partners. This stark data makes it clear that the need for prevention and education is paramount.

Beyond legislative changes, the conversation around education is heating up. A proposed law would ban sexual and emotional education for young students unless parents give explicit consent. Supporters believe this protects children from perceived ideological influence, while critics argue it sets back essential education efforts.

Maria Grazia Giammarinaro, a former UN expert on violence against women, notes that “Prevention starts with education.” Italy is among a handful of European countries where relationship education isn’t yet mandatory in schools, leaving many young people without crucial knowledge.

As Italy grapples with its violent past and works toward a safer future, voices on both sides of the debate continue to clash. Understanding and addressing these issues is key to creating real change. For more insights into this pressing issue, you can check research from organizations like the UN Women and the European Institute for Gender Equality.



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