Roberto Vannacci's party sparks controversy over gender roles

The political program of Futuro Nazionale, founded by Roberto Vannacci, has sparked controversy regarding its proposal of a ‘Mediterranean patriarchy’. The platform suggests a model where gender roles are clearly defined, advocating for the training of ‘strong males’ capable of controlling emotions to protect women, while suggesting that women should move away from what the party deems ‘extreme’ feminist ideas.

Critics and anti-violence advocates have challenged the party's claims regarding gender violence. The program asserts that Italy and Greece have lower rates of domestic violence compared to Scandinavian countries, where feminism is fully realized. However, Elisa Ercoli, president of Differenza Donna, has dismissed these claims as false, noting that Northern European nations serve as models for effective institutional and educational practices in combating femicide.

Supporters within the party argue the concept is not an attempt to return to the past, but rather an educational tool to foster emotional stability in men. Conversely, political opponents argue that patriarchy is a social structure to be overcome rather than protected, suggesting the rhetoric risks reinforcing narratives that frame crimes of passion or jealousy as products of Mediterranean temperament.