The Urgency of Now: From Awareness to Action

In a recent conference titled Gender Violence in Our Society: How to Fight It: Current tools by Looking to the Future, held at the Town Hall, paola Sisti passionately declared that symbolic acts, while crucial, are no longer sufficient. The time for decisive action against violence against women is now. Sisti emphasized the critical need to educate younger generations, fostering a culture of acceptance and mutual respect.

The conference, organized by the Local Police santostefanese in collaboration with a cultural association and professional training school, saw active participation, facilitated by the provision of free childcare services. This initiative underscores the community’s commitment to addressing this pervasive issue.

Legislative Milestones: The Istanbul Agreement and the Red Code

Diana Brusacà, president of the Spezia Court, provided a extensive overview of Italy’s legislative advancements in combating gender violence. She highlighted two pivotal moments: the ratification of the Istanbul Agreement in 2013 and the enactment of Law 69 of 2019, known as the Red Code.

The Istanbul Agreement, a legally binding international treaty, establishes a comprehensive framework for safeguarding women from all forms of violence. The Red Code aims to bolster the protection of victims of abuse, sexual assault, stalking, and domestic violence by expediting criminal proceedings and enabling swift protective measures.

The Istanbul Agreement is the first legally binding international tool that creates a complete regulatory framework to protect women from any form of violence.

Diana Brusacà, president of the Spezia Court

Understanding the Dynamics: Victims and Perpetrators

Sofia Nordio, a psychologist at the Irene anti-violence center in La Spezia, detailed the various forms of violence, including physical, sexual, psychological, economic, and stalking, as well as the devastating impact of violence witnessed by children within the family.

Turning the focus to perpetrators, Michela Ricci Ceffinati, coordinator of the Amae Rehabilitation Center for men of gender violence (Cuav), challenged the notion of a single profile for violent men. She asserted that violence is a choice made by ordinary individuals seeking to exert control and power.

It is the common man that he chooses to use violence to exercise control and power.

Michela Ricci Ceffinati, coordinator of the Amae Rehabilitation Center for men of gender violence (Cuav)

The Silent Victims: Protecting Children Exposed to Violence

Daniela Lorenzini, a psychologist-psychotherapist and legal psychologist, emphasized the urgent need to address the trauma experienced by children who witness violence. These children ofen develop feelings of fear and confusion, creating a breeding ground for future addictions, mental health issues, and violent behavior.

According to a 2024 report by the World Health Organization, children exposed to domestic violence are three times more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior later in life. Early intervention and support are crucial to breaking this cycle of violence.

These children live in an unstable environment that creates in their fear and confusion. Feelings that, in turn, are fertile ground for the onset of future addictions, psychic pathologies, violence.

Daniela Lorenzini, psychologist-psychotherapist and legal psychologist

Moving Forward: A Multi-Faceted Approach

The conference highlighted the necessity of a comprehensive strategy to combat gender violence, encompassing education, legislative action, victim support, and perpetrator rehabilitation. By addressing the root causes of violence and providing resources for those affected, communities can create a safer and more equitable future for all.