Italy is stepping up its fight against violence against women, particularly from current or former partners.
Ahead of International Women’s Day, the country’s government approved a bill that, for the first time, introduces the term “femicide” into legislation. This move comes in response to public outrage over high-profile cases of women being murdered. Under the new law, those guilty of such crimes may face life imprisonment.
The fight against femicide remains a pressing issue in Italy, especially following the murder of 22-year-old student Giulia Cecchettin in November 2023. Her ex-partner, Filippo Turetta, was sentenced to life in prison, sparking mass protests demanding legislative changes. More than 8,000 people, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, attended her funeral.
According to Italy’s Ministry of the Interior, 117 cases of femicide were recorded in 2023. The 2024 EU Gender Equality Index ranks Italy 14th among EU countries. Despite an increase in the number of women in leadership positions, their employment rate remains the lowest in the EU.
