Italian Government Approves Stricter Penalties for Femicide and Gender-Based Violence
The new legislation introduces life sentences for femicide, aiming to enhance protections for women against violence.
The Italian Council of Ministers has approved a significant legislative proposal that classifies femicide as a distinct criminal offense, carrying a penalty of life imprisonment for individuals who kill women as acts of discrimination or hatred.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni underscored the importance of this legislation, stating that it represents an important step towards combating violence against women and protecting victims' rights.
The draft bill, which is set to become law ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, outlines specific penalties.
It establishes life imprisonment for those who cause the death of a woman in circumstances that indicate discrimination or hatred based on her gender.
The law also stipulates a minimum prison sentence of 24 years in cases where aggravating circumstances are present, which are deemed to intensify the severity of the crime.
Additionally, the proposed legislation includes various aggravating factors that could increase penalties for related crimes.
For instance, if a violent act is committed to suppress the victim's rights or freedoms, the punishment may be enhanced by one-third to one-half.
Victims will also be informed in advance about the release of their assailants from prison following any form of leniency granted.
Supporting provisions introduced in conjunction with the legislation involve a non-binding opinion from the victim in cases of plea bargaining for crimes categorized under this new legislation.
Furthermore, the public prosecutor's office will be required to personally interview victims of serious offenses, ensuring that their voices are heard in legal proceedings.
The government is also tightening regulations surrounding parole for individuals convicted of violence against women, establishing presumption of custody in cases involving gender-based violence.
The new law mandates that offenders who engage in stalking or abuse must serve precautionary detention under electronic surveillance, barring exceptional circumstances.
Through this legislative move, the Italian government aims to address the rising concerns regarding gender violence, providing a more robust legal framework to assist in the protection and support of victims.
The reforms reflect a broader initiative to enhance legal measures against domestic violence and improve overall gender equality.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni underscored the importance of this legislation, stating that it represents an important step towards combating violence against women and protecting victims' rights.
The draft bill, which is set to become law ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, outlines specific penalties.
It establishes life imprisonment for those who cause the death of a woman in circumstances that indicate discrimination or hatred based on her gender.
The law also stipulates a minimum prison sentence of 24 years in cases where aggravating circumstances are present, which are deemed to intensify the severity of the crime.
Additionally, the proposed legislation includes various aggravating factors that could increase penalties for related crimes.
For instance, if a violent act is committed to suppress the victim's rights or freedoms, the punishment may be enhanced by one-third to one-half.
Victims will also be informed in advance about the release of their assailants from prison following any form of leniency granted.
Supporting provisions introduced in conjunction with the legislation involve a non-binding opinion from the victim in cases of plea bargaining for crimes categorized under this new legislation.
Furthermore, the public prosecutor's office will be required to personally interview victims of serious offenses, ensuring that their voices are heard in legal proceedings.
The government is also tightening regulations surrounding parole for individuals convicted of violence against women, establishing presumption of custody in cases involving gender-based violence.
The new law mandates that offenders who engage in stalking or abuse must serve precautionary detention under electronic surveillance, barring exceptional circumstances.
Through this legislative move, the Italian government aims to address the rising concerns regarding gender violence, providing a more robust legal framework to assist in the protection and support of victims.
The reforms reflect a broader initiative to enhance legal measures against domestic violence and improve overall gender equality.
Translation:
Translated by AI
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