Deputies in the Italian parliament have voted unanimously to introduce the crime of femicide – the murder of a woman, motivated by gender – as a distinct law to be punished with a life sentence.
In a symbolic move, the bill was approved on the day dedicated to the elimination of violence against women worldwide.
The idea of a law on femicide had been discussed in Italy before but the murder of Giulia Cecchettin by her ex-boyfriend was a tragedy that shocked the country into action.
In late November 2022, the 22-year-old was stabbed to death by Filippo Turetta, who then wrapped her body in bags and dumped it by a lakeside.
The killing became headline news until he was caught, but it was the powerful response of Giulia's sister, Elena, that resonated across the nation.
Elena stated that her sister\'s murderer was not an isolated monster but a product of a deeply patriarchal society, words that prompted widespread protests across Italy demanding legislative change.
Two years on, MPs have voted for this law after a long and passionately debated session of parliament, placing Italy among the few countries to categorize femicide as a distinct crime.
Introduced by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the law received support from her hard-right government as well as opposition MPs, signifying a unified stance against gender-based violence as many wore red ribbons or jackets to remember victims.
Italy will now record every murder of a woman motivated by gender as femicide. Judge Paola di Nicola, an author of the law, highlighted its importance in recognizing the underlying motivations rooted in hierarchy and power dynamics.
Italy joins Cyprus, Malta, and Croatia in the EU that have legally defined femicide. The new law applies to murders resulting from "hatred, discrimination, domination, control, or subjugation of a woman as a woman," presenting a rigorous framework for understanding and prosecuting such crimes.
However, the legislation has critics who argue the definition may be too vague, potentially complicating its enforcement. Advocates insist that while the law is essential, it must go hand-in-hand with broader measures to combat gender inequality.
Despite the challenges ahead, this legislative move represents a vital effort towards addressing violence against women and fostering societal change in Italy.
