Italy is one of the first European countries to officially recognize ‘femicide’ in its criminal law. This law links femicide to life imprisonment, making it clear that killing a woman just because she is a woman is not just another crime. It’s a serious form of gender-based violence.
The law was passed on the same day the world observed the Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. It addresses a harsh reality where many women lose their lives each year in Italy due to partners or ex-partners. The murder of student Giulia Cecchettin in 2023 symbolizes a society that must confront its issues.
The new Italian law goes beyond strict penalties. It sets tougher rules for gender-based crimes like stalking and revenge porn. It also offers better protection for victims and more funding for support services and shelters. Meanwhile, discussions in Italy heat up about sexual and emotional education in schools. The government seems cautious, while the opposition warns that without prevention, punishment alone isn’t enough.
In Cyprus, ‘femicide’ is now a common term in public conversations.
It’s important to note that only a few countries in Europe have legally defined femicide as a separate crime. In places like Malta and Croatia, the term has been added to criminal law with tougher penalties. But in most countries, the murder of women falls under general homicide laws, with added penalties for domestic or gender-based violence.
In Cyprus, ‘femicide’ is often mentioned by the media, women’s groups, and experts. However, it hasn’t been recognized as a separate crime in the Penal Code yet. Murders of women are treated as homicide or premeditated murder with severe penalties, including life imprisonment. While strict punishments exist, what’s missing is the clear legal recognition of gender motivation.
This isn’t just a small detail. When the state acknowledges femicide, it officially states that it’s not a ‘crime of passion’ or ‘a moment of rage.’ Instead, it’s a crime rooted in deep-seated inequality and patriarchal attitudes. Cyprus has faced its own tragic cases. Women have been murdered by partners or ex-partners, including mothers, workers, migrants, and those who sought help from authorities. Each time we hear: ‘let this be the last victim.’ Yet months later, another case arises.
Italy has taken the step to include ‘femicide’ in its laws with the toughest penalties. Will we stay in discussion or take action? Every time we hesitate to name violence or soften it with terms like ‘family tragedy’ or ‘couple’s drama,’ we diminish the truth of lost women. One lesson from Italy is clear: change starts when we finally call things by their true names.
