Italy Unanimously Passes Law Making Femicide a Standalone Crime

Italy's parliament approved a landmark reform that defines femicide as a distinct crime, with a mandatory life sentence for murders motivated by gender. The unanimous vote came on the international day against violence toward women, signaling a national pledge to confront gender-based killings.

The push gained urgency after Giulia Cecchettin, 22, was killed by her former partner in 2022, a case that stunned the nation and spurred demands for stronger protection for women.

Elena Cecchettin, Giulia's sister, spoke out, describing the killer as the product of a patriarchal society rather than a monster, a message that mobilized crowds across Italy to demand change.

Two years later, MPs approved the bill, making Italy one of the few EU countries to codify femicide as a standalone offense. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni led the proposal, which enjoyed cross-party backing and visible public solidarity, with many supporters wearing red in tribute to victims.

Under the law, murders that are an act of hatred, discrimination, domination, or control against a woman because of her gender, or those occurring when a relationship ends to restrict her freedoms, will be recorded as femicide and carry a life sentence when applicable.

Italy now joins Cyprus, Malta and Croatia in having a formal femicide definition in its criminal code. Official data show a slight fall in total female homicides last year, with 116 deaths and 106 attributed to gender-based violence. The new framework will ensure these cases are tracked as femicide.

Critics warn that defining femicide could be tricky in court and warn that broader action is needed to address inequality. Some academics, like Valeria Torre of Foggia University, argue the definition may be too vague and that resources and policy changes are crucial to the fight against gender violence.

In parallel, public discussions and exhibits such as the Museum of the Patriarchy in Rome highlight the varied forms of violence and the need for education. The Cecchettin Foundation has been touring schools to promote respect and emotional education among young people, hoping to prevent future tragedies.

While some lawmakers oppose mandatory sex education, advocates argue that early, comprehensive programs are essential to prevent violence and promote equality.

As the law takes effect, supporters say it signals a lasting shift in Italy's approach to gender violence, while critics call for more concrete measures to reduce inequality.

Key Takeaways

• Femicide is defined as a standalone crime with mandatory life sentences for gender-motivated killings.
• The measure followed a study of 211 recent female killings and received broad cross-party support.
• Italy joins a small group of EU states recognizing femicide in law, though experts warn about enforcement and broader inequality needs.

Expert comment

Expert: Dr. Lucia Rossi, a gender-law scholar, says the measure marks a historic shift but requires precise guidelines to ensure consistent application across courts. She adds that resources and education are essential to translate the law into real change.

Summary

Italy's passage of a femicide law signals a deliberate move to acknowledge and address gender-based murder as a distinct crime. The life sentence reflects a hard stance on violence against women, while the accompanying debates underscore the need for clear rules and broader equality efforts. Looking ahead, observers say real progress will depend on education, support services, and sustained anti-inequality policies.

Italy's new femicide law marks a turning point in recognizing gender-based violence and calls for broader equality measures across society. Source: BBC News