Italy - November 2025

On 25 November, the Chamber of Deputies approved the ‘Femminicidio e contrasto alla violenza sulle donne’ amendment to the Penal Code, recognizing femicide as a crime punishable by life imprisonment. Italy becomes the fourth EU country to define femicide as a standalone offence. The amendment follows public outcry over the 2023 murder of the 22-year-old Giulia Cecchettin by her ex-boyfriend. Promulgated by President Sergio Mattarella on 2 December, the law will take effect on 17 December. 

Sources: International IDEA, Gazzetta Ufficiale, Euractiv