Overview

• Italy's government has approved a draft law to define femicide as a distinct crime, punishable by life imprisonment.
• The legislation also increases penalties for stalking, sexual violence, revenge porn, and personal abuse.
• Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly backed the initiative, calling it a significant step in addressing violence against women.
• The draft law still requires approval from both chambers of parliament before becoming law.
• Critics argue the law addresses only the criminal aspect of femicide while neglecting broader economic and cultural factors contributing to gender-based violence.