A Historic Step Forward: Italy’s New Law Against Femicide

Introduction

In a landmark decision, the Italian government has approved a draft law that, for the first time, introduces the legal definition of femicide into the country’s criminal code. This move, announced on the eve of International Women’s Day, aims to address the shocking rise in gender-based violence and killings targeting women in Italy. The proposed legislation not only defines femicide as an autonomous crime but also imposes life imprisonment for those convicted. While the law is still pending approval by parliament, it marks a significant step toward tackling systemic gender violence in a country where patriarchal norms and cultural attitudes have long perpetuated inequality and violence against women.

Key Provisions of the Draft Law

The draft law, backed by conservative Premier Giorgia Meloni, strengthens measures against gender-based crimes such as stalking, sexual violence, and revenge porn. It introduces aggravating circumstances for these crimes, increasing their sentences. Meloni described the bill as “extremely significant,” emphasizing its importance in addressing the systemic issue of violence against women. The law specifically targets crimes motivated by gender discrimination, recognizing femicide as a distinct and severe offense. This legal recognition is a critical step toward acknowledging the deeply rooted gender inequalities that contribute to such violence.

Reactions to the Proposal

While the center-left opposition has welcomed the initiative, critics argue that the law focuses solely on the criminal aspect of gender violence, leaving unaddressed the broader economic and cultural challenges faced by women in Italy. Femicide, they contend, is not just a legal issue but also a symptom of systemic patriarchy and inequality. Recent incidents of brutal violence against women, such as the killing of 22-year-old Giulia Cecchettin by her ex-partner, have reignited the national debate on gender-based crimes. Cecchettin’s killer was sentenced to life imprisonment in December 2023, but her case underscores the need for more comprehensive measures to prevent such tragedies.

The Alarming Reality of Gender Violence in Italy

Official data from the Italian Interior Ministry reveals that femicides remain a persistent issue in the country. In 2024, 113 women were killed, with 99 of these cases involving relatives, partners, or ex-partners. While overall homicide rates in Italy have declined, femicides have remained stable or seen only slight decreases, highlighting the entrenched nature of gender-based violence. These killings are often linked to the “emotional sphere” of the victims, suggesting that many such crimes occur within intimate relationships or family contexts. This disturbing trend underscores the urgent need for policies that address both the legal and societal factors contributing to these crimes.

Criticism from Women’s Rights Organizations

Women’s rights groups, such as Non Una di Meno, have expressed skepticism about the draft law. Activists argue that the bill is more of a political gesture than a meaningful solution, as it fails to address the root causes of gender inequality. Serena Fredda, a prominent activist, described the law as a “propaganda move,” pointing out that increased penalties alone do not deter violence. Fredda emphasized that femicide is merely the “tip of the iceberg,” highlighting the need for broader societal changes to eliminate discrimination against women in education, the workplace, and other areas. Non Una di Meno has long advocated for comprehensive policies to address gender violence, including economic support for survivors and educational programs to challenge patriarchal attitudes.

Conclusion: A Step Forward but More Work to Be Done

The approval of the femicide draft law represents a crucial step forward in Italy’s efforts to combat gender-based violence. By legally defining femicide and imposing harsher penalties, the government acknowledges the severity of the issue and sends a strong message about the unacceptability of violence against women. However, as critics point out, the law is only one piece of the puzzle. Addressing the systemic and cultural roots of gender violence requires a multifaceted approach, including education, economic empowerment, and societal change. While the new legislation is a promising start, Italy must continue to confront the deep-seated inequalities that perpetuate violence against women. Only then can the country hope to create a truly safe and equitable society for all.