Italian parliament has voted unanimously to introduce femicide as a distinct crime, punishable by life imprisonment. This landmark vote coincided with the international day for the elimination of violence against women, making it particularly poignant.
The move was catalyzed by the horrific murder of 22-year-old Giulia Cecchettin, who was stabbed by her ex-boyfriend in a case that shocked the country. Following this tragedy, the need for laws specifically addressing gender-related killings became urgent.
This new legislation means that any murder of a woman motivated by gender will be classified separately, allowing for a better understanding of the underlying societal issues. Judge Paola di Nicola, who contributed to drafting the law, emphasized its intent to expose the true motivations behind such crimes—rooted in power dynamics rather than romantic narratives.
While some critics argue the law may be too vague, advocates insist that it will pave the way for a broader dialogue about violence against women, challenging patriarchal norms.
As the law comes into effect, activists, parents, and educators stress the importance of holistic approaches, combining legislation with education on gender equality and emotional health to prevent future tragedies.
