Once again, this year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is taking part in the global campaign marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. As highlighted by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Antonio Tajani, “Italy must be at the forefront of promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, particularly in preventing and combating all forms of discrimination and violence against women.”
This year, the theme will be addressed at the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Fiuggi-Anagni. On November 25, during the ministerial meeting, a “red bench” will be unveiled—a symbol in remembrance of women victims of violence and their lost lives. The unveiling will include the placement of a commemorative plaque by the Foreign Ministers at the Fiuggi Municipal Theater, whose façade will be illuminated in orange for the occasion. This initiative underscores the emphasis Italy, as the G7 Presidency, has placed on preventing and combating violence against women and girls, particularly in conflict zones where sexual violence is also used as a weapon of war.
At the direction of Minister Tajani, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its overseas network are once again participating in the “Orange the World: End Violence Against Women Now!” campaign, promoted by UN Women. This campaign marks the beginning of 16 days of activities alongside civil society. To commemorate the occasion, the Ministry’s headquarters will be illuminated in orange on November 25.
The elimination of violence against women and support for women’s empowerment remain central pillars of Italy’s foreign policy and development cooperation. This is demonstrated by numerous international campaigns, such as those aimed at eradicating female genital mutilation and child, early, and forced marriage, where Italy has consistently taken a leading role. Italy’s commitment is also evident in its work with the UN Commission on the Status of Women.
Within the framework of the UN Agenda on “Women, Peace, and Security,” Italy has been at the forefront among UN member states through its National Action Plan, which promotes initiatives to ensure women’s full participation in conflict prevention and resolution. One such initiative is the Mediterranean Women Mediators Network, launched by Italy in 2017.
The recently issued Guidelines of Italian Development Cooperation on gender equality and the empowerment of women, girls, and children further intensify this commitment through targeted initiatives, including programs addressing women’s health, maternal and child health, sexual and reproductive health, and supporting education for girls and women.
At Minister Tajani’s request, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dedicated its “Invest Your Talent in Italy” scholarship program to the memory of Giulia Cecchettin, a victim of femicide on the eve of her graduation in engineering. This program supports international young talents, combining advanced training in engineering, economics, or architecture at Italian universities with professional experience in Italian companies.