Sergio Mattarella calls for school-based prevention of violence

Italian President Sergio Mattarella has called for increased prevention, training, and education within schools to combat violence, specifically addressing the emergency of violence against women. During a recent address, Mattarella highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting 97 femicides in the previous year and 34 in the first half of the current year.

Mattarella emphasized that violence often begins with subtle behaviors—such as controlling messages, jealousy, and possessiveness—long before physical aggression occurs. He stressed that schools play a vital role in teaching respect and healthy relationships, acting as a preventative tool before violence escalates.

In addition to gender-based violence, the President addressed broader issues of school safety, including bullying and physical aggression against teachers. He urged parents to maintain a strong alliance with educators to uphold coexistence and respect within the educational system, noting that violence can manifest as both explicit bullying and more insidious forms of oppression.