In response to the recent murder of 22-year-old student Giulia Cecchettin, thousands of people across Italy, and indeed the world, have taken to the streets to protest violence against women. The demonstrations, organized by feminist movement Non Una di Meno, were held on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The protests have been ongoing since Cecchettin's body was found, and her former boyfriend, Filippo Turetta, has been arrested in Germany.
The murder of Cecchettin, the 106th victim of femicide in Italy this year according to the Interior Ministry, has sparked outrage and demands for an end to violence against women. Official statistics show that while common murders have decreased over the years, femicides have remained consistent, with 106 recorded in 2022, 139 in 2021, and 116 in 2020.
In response to the outcry, the Italian parliament has approved new measures to combat violence against women, including a school campaign addressing sexism, machismo, and violence against women. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the femicide 'barbaric' and promised a new awareness campaign in schools and stricter laws against gender violence. The murder has also led to a unanimous vote on legislation strengthening tools such as restraining orders.
The incident coincided with the release of a popular movie about a woman enduring abuse from her husband, set in 1946, which has resonated with audiences. The article also highlights the patriarchal mentality prevalent in Italian society and the need for education on reciprocal respect between genders. Activists blame a culture where violent jealousy is seen as normal.
Protests against violence towards women were not limited to Italy. Major cities in Europe and the Americas saw large turnouts. US President Joe Biden issued a statement condemning gender-based violence. Protests also took place in Guatemala, Chile, and France.