The Italian Parliament has made a groundbreaking decision, marking a significant milestone in the fight against gender-based violence. With unanimous approval, lawmakers have classified femicide as a distinct criminal offense, underlining the state’s commitment to protect women from tragic and preventable violence. This new legislation encompasses stringent penalties and establishes specialized protocols for law enforcement agencies to better address and investigate these crimes.

The enactment of this law comes after years of advocacy by women’s rights groups and activists who emphasized the need for dedicated legal frameworks to tackle gender-motivated killings. Key features of the new law include:

  • Enhanced sentencing guidelines targeting perpetrators involved in femicide
  • Mandatory training for police and judiciary on gender-sensitive cases
  • Creation of support centers for survivors and…