In Naples and its province, there are between 35 and 40 reports per day for episodes of gender violence, with over 5400 criminal proceedings initiated in just one year.
Article Key Points
A growing phenomenon, especially among the youngest, which emerges with worrying evidence from the data provided by the Court of Naples.
The increase in reports, however, also suggests a greater use of the protection tools introduced by the "red code", which guarantees qualified listening to victims at the police stations. Carabinieri and police stations. A mechanism that encourages women to report, breaking the wall of silence.
The importance of information and journalistic language
The role of the media in the narration of gender violence was at the centre of the training course for journalists “Stop gender violence. Train to stop”, held in Naples. The deputy prosecutor of Naples, Raffaello Falcone, coordinator of the "Weak Fasce" section, underlined the need for responsible narration by information operators, so that they can contribute to orienting public opinion and dismantling deep-rooted stereotypes.
According to Falcone, primary prevention involves a cultural change that eliminates the underlying assumptions of violence: gender stereotypes and crystallized family roles. In this context, administrative preventive protection measures, such as the warning decree, are producing significant results. Data from the Anti-Crime Division of the Naples Police Headquarters show that less than 10% of those warned for violence are repeat offenders.
A widespread problem among young people
The phenomenon of violence gender is confirmed to be transversal by age and social condition, with a growing involvement of the youngest. The 2023 Report of the Central Directorate of Criminal Police, produced with the Authority for the Protection of Children and Adolescents, records an increase in cases among minors: 10% of victims are under 13, while 25% of offenders fall within the 14-17 age group.
“To initiate a cultural change, it is essential to act on the perception that young people have of violence, guiding them towards relationships based on mutual respect,” said Danila Pescina, psychologist and criminologist. However, ISTAT data outline a worrying reality: 53,6% of Italians manifest at least one gender stereotype, with a persistence of models of male control over women among the youngest. 16% of young people between 18 and 29 consider it acceptable to monitor their partner’s cell phone, while 5% consider a slap in a relationship justifiable.
“The difficulty young people have in recognizing violence and its manifestations is an alarming signal,” Pescina added. “Despite modern society, many families continue to transmit a culture of male oppression.”
Information as a tool for change
Ottavio Lucarelli, president of theOrder of Journalists of Campania, reiterated the crucial role of the media in combating gender violence. “Information must be an active sentinel, contributing to the diffusion of a culture based on gender equality. Correct and responsible news can help society become aware and fight the phenomenon.”
Gender equality education and awareness-raising are key tools to combat violence against women. Starting from schools, it is possible to build a future in which mutual respect becomes the foundation of every relationship.
Article published on 3 February 2025 - 21:43
