Italy’s parliament has passed a landmark law recognizing femicide as a distinct criminal offense, punishable by life imprisonment, in a move coinciding with the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
The law, which received bipartisan support from the center-right majority and center-left opposition in the Lower Chamber, passed with 237 votes in favor. Backed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s conservative government, it strengthens legal measures against gender-based crimes, including stalking and revenge porn.
The legislation comes in response to high-profile killings, such as the 2023 murder of university student Giulia Cecchettin, and rising public concern over violence against women in Italy’s patriarchal society. According to Italy’s statistics agency Istat, 106 femicides were recorded in 2024, 62 of them committed by partners or former partners.
Meloni emphasized the government’s commitment to combating violence against women, citing increased funding for anti-violence centers, emergency hotlines, and education initiatives, while pledging further action.
Critics, however, argue the law addresses only the criminal aspects, leaving deeper economic and cultural issues unresolved. The debate over sexual and emotional education in schools has intensified, with the government restricting such programs and requiring parental consent for high school lessons, while opposition parties call for mandatory education to prevent future gender-based violence.
The new law positions Italy among countries taking decisive legal action against femicide, but challenges remain in addressing the social and preventive measures necessary to curb violence against women.
