Overview
- Her death was announced on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, by her spokesperson and the +Europa party after a serious hospitalization earlier in the week.
- Bonino was taken to hospital in a serious condition on Monday, spent time in intensive care, and was moved to a private clinic on Thursday before her death was reported.
- Her political career began after a 1974 illegal abortion and a public 1975 surrender to police, acts that helped drive the campaign leading to Italy’s 1978 legalization of abortion.
- She served repeatedly in the Italian and European parliaments, held senior government posts including foreign and European affairs minister, and was appointed European Commissioner where she set up the Commission’s humanitarian office.
- Bonino leaves a record as a long‑time human rights campaigner on issues from female genital mutilation to refugee aid, and she is survived by her siblings and extended family as Italy and Europe reflect on her legacy.