Controversy has flared following remarks by Italy’s Education Minister, Giuseppe Valditara, during the launch of the Giulia Cecchettin Foundation. Named after the 22-year-old woman murdered in Vigonovo in November 2023 by her ex-boyfriend, Filippo Turetta, the foundation aims to combat gender-based violence. In a video message to the Chamber of Deputies, Valditara declared that the patriarchy “no longer exists as a legal phenomenon” and suggested that sexual violence often stems from “illegal immigration.” These comments drew immediate backlash. Riccardo Magi, secretary of PiùEuropa, countered, “Over 80% of femicides in Italy are committed by Italians. Valditara should be ashamed; this is blatant racist manipulation.” Criticism also came from the Democratic Party. “The fight against patriarchy is not ideological but essential to eradicate violence and oppression,” said MEP Alessandra Moretti. Other opposition leaders labeled Valditara unfit for office and accused him of irresponsible rhetoric.
Despite mounting opposition, Valditara defended his stance. In a follow-up statement, he reiterated, “Since the 1975 reform, a patriarchal system defined by legal male supremacy no longer exists. What remains is misogyny, which we must combat by valuing every person equally.” He also maintained his position on the link between violence and illegal immigration, adding, “Reducing marginalization and deviance caused by illegal immigration is part of the solution.” Valditara dismissed his critics as seeking political advantage rather than addressing the dignity and safety of women.
Elena Cecchettin, Giulia’s sister, also spoke out against Valditara’s comments, questioning the government’s commitment to combating femicide. “Beyond distributing brochures—what has this government done in the past year?” she asked in an Instagram post. Her criticism extended to Valditara’s presence at the foundation’s launch. “Instead of making propaganda during an event honoring a girl killed by an Italian, white, ‘upstanding’ man, perhaps they could listen and act to stop the deaths of hundreds of women each year in this country,” she wrote.
Elena praised her father’s efforts in creating the foundation, describing it as “a monumental achievement born from two years of anguish.” The foundation seeks to prevent gender-based violence and support victims of abuse. “My father picked up the pieces of unimaginable pain and built something extraordinary,” she said, highlighting the urgent need for systemic action in Italy.
