Italy has taken a historic step in the global fight against gender-based violence with the approval of a new law that explicitly introduces femicide into the nation’s criminal code and mandates life imprisonment for those convicted. Passed on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the legislation carries broad symbolic weight at a time when Italy faces intense scrutiny for rising gender-related crimes.
The bill arrived after years of public pressure, high-profile murders, and growing frustration with Italy’s slow and uneven response to violence against women. Despite deep political divisions in the country, the law passed with bipartisan support — 237 votes in favor — signaling a rare moment of national unity around an issue that has long demanded urgency.
Why This Law Now? A Nation at a Breaking Point
Italy has grappled with deeply entrenched patriarchal norms for generations. Recent cases have triggered nationwide protests and soul-searching, including the murder of Giulia Cecchettin, a university student killed by her ex-boyfriend in 2023. The brutality of the crime reignited debate about toxic masculinity, cultural machismo, and institutional failures to protect victims.
In 2024 alone, Istat recorded 106 femicides, with 62 committed by current or former partners, illuminating the disproportionate vulnerability women face within intimate relationships.
Public pressure became impossible for lawmakers to ignore.
What the Law Actually Does
The legislation is part punitive, part preventative. Its major components include:
1. Femicide Defined in Criminal Law
Italy now recognizes the gender-motivated killing of women as a distinct category of crime, similar to statutes in Latin America (e.g., Mexico, Argentina, Chile). This allows the justice system to evaluate motive and pattern in cases of gender-based violence.
2. Life Imprisonment for Convicted Offenders
The harshest penalty under Italian law becomes mandatory in cases where femicide is proven.
3. Expanded Measures Against Gender-Based Crimes
The law strengthens sentencing and investigative tools for:
- stalking
- revenge porn
- threats and harassment
4. Support Structures Reinforced
The Meloni government highlighted increased funding:
- doubled budgets for anti-violence centers
- expanded shelter capacity
- expanded emergency hotlines
However, critics argue these investments still fall short of European standards.
The Political Climate: Support and Sharp Criticism
Government Position (Meloni’s Coalition)
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her right-wing government have framed the law as a bold response to a national emergency.
Meloni emphasized:
- stronger punishment
- expanded resources
- a message of zero tolerance
She described the law as a “concrete step forward”.
Opposition Position
Center-left parties supported the bill but warned it focuses too heavily on repression, neglecting:
- economic inequality
- lack of social services
- gaps in education, especially around gender
Most significantly, they criticized the government for simultaneously backing a proposal to ban sexual and emotional education for young students and require explicit parental consent for high-school lessons. Activists described the bill as “medieval,” arguing it undermines long-term prevention.
As Elly Schlein, leader of the Democratic Party, stated:
“Repression is not enough. Prevention must start in the schools.”
Pros: Why Supporters Say the Law Matters
1. Recognition and Visibility
By naming femicide, Italy acknowledges the gendered nature of the violence — a crucial step that validates victims and survivors.
2. Stronger Deterrence
Life sentences may impose a strong deterrent effect by signaling zero tolerance, especially in cases involving repeated abuse or escalation.
3. Institutional Commitment
Doubling funding for shelters and hotlines represents measurable investment.
4. Aligns Italy with Global Human Rights Standards
Countries like Spain and Argentina have pioneered femicide laws; Italy now joins them in formalizing the issue.
5. Bipartisan Agreement
Rare consensus in a polarized political system suggests genuine recognition of the crisis.
Cons: Criticisms and Unresolved Problems
1. Prevention Is Largely Missing
Experts emphasize that:
- stereotypes,
- cultural conditioning,
- misogyny,
- and unhealthy relationship norms
must be addressed in youth before violence occurs. The government’s rejection of compulsory sex and emotional education undermines long-term change.
2. Economic Dependency Is Overlooked
Women financially dependent on partners — a common dynamic in Italy’s more traditional regions — remain more vulnerable.
3. Limited Impact on Systemic Issues
Courts, police, and social workers often lack:
- gender-violence training
- timely response mechanisms
- survivor-centered protocols
The law doesn’t fully address those gaps.
4. Risk of Symbolic Politics
Critics argue the legislation may be more of a political performance, especially given the government’s track record:
- 25% reduction in national park staff
- proposed cuts to public services
- ideological push against progressive education
Symbolic laws without implementation risk becoming ineffective.
Overall Neutral Assessment
Italy’s new femicide law is a historic and meaningful step, signaling national recognition of a pervasive problem. It aligns Italy with international best practices and provides stronger tools for punishing perpetrators and supporting survivors.
However, laws alone cannot solve a cultural crisis. Without serious investment in early education, social support, and systemic reform, the law may be a powerful symbol that falls short of transforming the deep-rooted societal norms that foster violence.
Italy now stands at a crossroads: the country can honor the spirit of this legislation through long-term prevention, or risk letting it become another under-enforced statute in an already strained justice system.
