Italy introduces ‘femicide’ into criminal code to combat violence against women.
The recent passage of a law in Italy defining femicide as a crime punishable by life imprisonment reflects a profound societal commitment to combating violence against women. With this legislative move spearheaded by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Italy is not only enhancing its legal framework but also raising awareness of the ongoing epidemic of gender-based violence—a situation that resonates globally, transcending cultural and national boundaries.
Italy’s parliament has officially incorporated the crime of femicide, identified as the intentional killing of women and girls based on their gender, into its criminal code, establishing a penalty of life imprisonment. The unanimous approval of this bill on November 26, 2025, symbolizes what Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described as “political cohesion against the barbaric nature of violence against women,” as reported by Italian public broadcaster RAI. This legislative initiative aligns with Meloni’s administration’s commitment to protect women, which previously included the introduction of anti-stalking laws and ongoing debates around legislation focused on consent in sexual relations.
Highlighting the government’s proactive measures, Meloni stated, “We have doubled funding for anti-violence centers and shelters, promoted an emergency hotline, and implemented innovative education and awareness-raising activities.” Emphasizing the need for continued action, she insisted, “These are concrete steps forward, but we won’t stop here. We must continue to do much more, every day.” The bill’s approval coincided with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, further underscoring Italy’s commitment to addressing this urgent issue.
In 2022 alone, Italy documented 106 femicides, with 62 perpetrated by current or former partners, reflecting disturbing global trends where nearly two-thirds of female homicides are committed by intimate partners or family members, according to UN Women. The issue garnered national attention following the tragic stabbing of 22-year-old university student Giulia Cecchettin by her boyfriend, who subsequently received a life sentence.
However, rights organizations such as the gender-based movement Non Una di Meno, which translates to “Not One Less,” assert that while punitive measures are essential, the focus must also shift toward preventative strategies. They emphasize the urgent necessity for enhanced sexual and emotional education, particularly as Italy remains one of the few European Union countries lacking mandatory sexual education in public schools, with many programs even requiring parental consent.
Amidst these legislative efforts, the dialogue surrounding women’s rights and safety is evolving in Italy, signifying a critical moment in the fight against violence directed at women. By fostering a more profound understanding and awareness of these issues, the nation aims to cultivate a safer and more equitable environment for all women.
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