On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, reaffirms Italy’s and the Foreign Ministry’s ongoing commitment to preventing and combating all forms of violence and discrimination against women, in Italy and around the world.
The Minister stated: “Violence against women is an unacceptable violation of human rights and an obstacle to the development of our societies. Italy must continue to be at the forefront of promoting gender equality, women’s empowerment, and the protection of the most vulnerable. We need to build a future in which no woman fears for her freedom or her life. This is a responsibility that falls to institutions, civil society, and each of us.”
The elimination of gender-based violence remains a cornerstone of Italian foreign policy and development cooperation, supporting international campaigns against harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and early and forced marriage, as well as actively contributing to the work of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. Combating all forms of violence against women and girls is also one of Italy’s priorities during its mandate as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the three-year period 2026-2028.
This year again, the Ministry and its foreign network are participating in the global campaign “Orange the World” promoted by UN Women, lighting the façade of the Foreign Ministry and participating in awareness-raising initiatives aimed at civil society and young people.
The Foreign Ministry and the Italian diplomatic and consular network are also renewing their commitment to the initiative of the “red benches”, a universal symbol of the fight against femicide and a visible warning against all forms of violence.