Italy withdraws from European Network of Ombudsmen for Children

Italy has withdrawn from the European Network of Ombudsmen for Children (ENOC) following a decision by the national guarantor for childhood and adolescence, Marina Terragni. The withdrawal stems from a disagreement regarding a 13-page ENOC document titled ‘Declaration on the protection and promotion of the rights of LGBTQIA+ children and young people.’

Terragni reportedly objected to the use of the term ‘cisgender’ within the document and requested that her dissenting opinion be recorded in the minutes, which was not granted. Critics, including the political party Rifondazione Comunista, have characterized the move as an ideological decision that denies the identity and rights of LGBTQIA+ minors. They argue the withdrawal increases Italy’s political isolation within the European Union.

In response to the decision, the association Defense for Children has announced plans to report the case to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child. Opponents of the decision claim the move is disproportionate and undermines international systems of protection for children.