Premier Giorgia Meloni on Friday urged all political forces in Italy to work together to combat femicide and gender-based violence, following the killing of a 14-year-old girl near Naples. The girl was allegedly murdered by her 18-year-old ex-boyfriend, sparking renewed concern about violence against women and girls across the country.
Speaking from Astana, Kazakhstan, Meloni described the case as “breath-taking” in its brutality and admitted that, despite ongoing efforts, institutions often feel helpless in the face of such tragedies.
“I am writing to the Bicameral Commission for Children to ask all forces: let’s work together,” Meloni said. “The issue is much bigger than us and I think we need to tackle it together. There is no need for appeals. I am here. We need a huge reflection.”
Also read: Over 3,500 femicide orphans in Italy
The Premier responded to a call from opposition leader Elly Schlein to put political differences aside and address the root causes of gender-based violence in a united way.
“I also heard Schlein saying: let’s put aside the differences. The laws are there, the tools are there, the issue is broader and perhaps we are not really understanding it,” Meloni told reporters. “We risk not understanding what is happening to the new generations. Therefore, not being able to predict the dangers.”
She noted a troubling rise in both violent behaviour and suicides among young people, suggesting a need for deeper societal reflection. “I don’t have the answers, but if we don’t ask ourselves questions, we cannot find answers.”
