A Breakthrough Law Against Gender Violence
In a landmark move, Italy’s parliament has formally included femicide — the intentional killing of women and girls because of their gender — as a standalone crime. The law carries a life sentence for anyone convicted. The decision was unanimously backed by lawmakers, a rare moment of unity in a country often divided over social issues.
This decision coincided with the global observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women — underscoring Italy’s commitment to combat gender-based violence.
What the New Law Covers
- The new legislation defines femicide as killings motivated by hatred, control, or discrimination against women — including murders following relationship breakups or aimed at subjugation.
- It also strengthens penalties for related offences such as stalking and non-consensual sharing of intimate material (revenge porn).
- A 2024 report showed 106 women lost their lives to gender-based homicide in Italy, 62 of them at the hands of a current or former partner.
The law aims not only to punish but also to ensure that femicides are recognized, recorded, and studied as a distinct social problem — not just as ordinary homicides.
Why This Change Matters
Italy joins a small but growing number of European countries that treat femicide as a specific crime. For years, activists have argued that only by recognizing femicide explicitly could killers be held accountable properly and patterns of violence recognized.
Supporters of the law believe it will act as a strong deterrent and a clear message that gender-based violence will no longer be tolerated. As a result, it could also encourage more victims and witnesses to speak out and seek justice.
Critics — including some women’s rights groups — warn that punishment alone is not enough. They urge parallel efforts in education, prevention, and social support to change deep-rooted cultural attitudes that enable violence.
