Italy Moves to Define Femicide in Criminal Law
On the eve of International Women’s Day, the Italian government has taken a significant step towards addressing violence against women by approving a draft law that formally defines “femicide” within its criminal justice framework. This new legislation proposes life imprisonment as a potential punishment for those convicted of this crime, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to combat gender-based violence.
A Legislative Milestone
The proposal, which was finalized on Friday, must now pass through both chambers of the Italian parliament before it can be enacted into law. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her strong support for the initiative, referring to the bill as a substantial advancement in the way sexual violence and domestic abuse are legislated in Italy. Under the new law, femicide will be recognized as an independent crime, complete with aggravated circumstances that could result in increased penalties for offenses such as stalking and revenge porn.
Context of the Law
Italy has been grappling with alarming rates of violence against women, with recent incidents sparking renewed discussions about the cultural and systemic issues contributing to these crimes. The tragic case of Giulia Cecchettin, a 22-year-old university student murdered by her ex-boyfriend in November 2023, has highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive legal protections. The perpetrator, Filippo Turetta, was sentenced to life imprisonment in December of the same year.
Statistics on Femicide
Despite a decrease in overall homicides in Italy, the rate of femicides remains persistent, often related to intimate relationships. In 2024, there were 113 reported femicides, with 99 occurring at the hands of relatives, partners, or ex-partners, according to government records.
Reactions to the Legislation
The response to the proposed law has been varied. While it received support from some quarters, including the center-left opposition, critics argue that it fails to address broader socio-economic and cultural divides that contribute to gender violence. Women’s rights activists, particularly from the organization Non Una di Meno, have characterized the legislative initiative as a superficial measure. Activist Serena Fredda stated during a rally in Rome, “It’s a propaganda move. This is a government that tends to multiply crimes and forgets that, despite the increase in penalties, there is no real deterrence.”
The Way Forward
Many advocacy groups emphasize that efforts to combat femicide must go beyond legal definitions and penalties. As highlighted by activists, eliminating discrimination against women in various sectors, such as education and employment, is vital in creating an environment where women feel safe and valued.
