Italy Strengthens Fight Against Gender Violence on International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women

Italy Observes International Day with Legislative Action

Italy observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, 2025, with a series of nationwide events and a pivotal legislative development. The day, established by the United Nations General Assembly to raise global awareness, saw Italy's parliament take a significant step by unanimously approving a bill that introduces 'femicide' as a distinct crime within the country's legal system.

New Femicide Law and Enhanced Protections

The newly approved legislation defines femicide as a crime punishable by life imprisonment. This bill also strengthens measures against other gender-based crimes, including stalking and revenge porn, and introduces the concept of consent into the definition of sexual assault, explicitly defining sex without consent as rape. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni lauded the unanimous parliamentary approval as a sign of 'political cohesion against the barbaric nature of violence against women.' Both the center-right majority and the center-left opposition supported the law, which comes in response to a persistent high number of women killed each year in Italy.

National Mobilization and Awareness Campaigns

Across Italy, the day was marked by various events aimed at raising awareness and fostering a culture of respect. The feminist movement Non Una di Meno organized a rally in Rome, demonstrating against violence and patriarchy. Cultural initiatives, such as the 'Facciamo Luce' campaign and film screenings, took place in the capital. Government buildings were illuminated in orange, and 'red benches' were utilized as universal symbols in the fight against femicide and all forms of violence. The Giro d'Italia and Giro d'Italia Women cycling events also participated, launching the 'Write to Change It' campaign to engage the public in a collective message against violence. The observance also initiated the '16 Days of Activism' campaign, concluding on Human Rights Day on December 10.

The Persistent Challenge of Gender-Based Violence

Despite legislative efforts and awareness campaigns, violence against women remains a significant issue in Italy. Statistics from 2015 indicate that approximately one in three women (31.5%) aged 16 to 70 have experienced some form of physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. More serious forms of sexual violence, such as rape and attempted rape, affected 5.4% of women. In 2023, Italy recorded over 100 femicide victims. Data from 2020–2023 shows that 83% of homicides of women were femicides, with 94% of victims killed by partners or relatives.

Government's Continued Commitment

Prime Minister Meloni reaffirmed the government's ongoing commitment to combating violence against women. She highlighted previous legislative measures, including the 'code red' law, and emphasized strengthened tools and prevention efforts. The government has doubled funding for anti-violence centers and shelters, promoted the '1522' helpline, and implemented innovative education and awareness-raising initiatives. Meloni stated, 'We must keep doing more and more, every day. To protect, to prevent, to provide support. To build an Italy in which no woman ever has to feel alone, threatened or disbelieved again.'