# Italian university initiatives against gender-based violence > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/italian-university-initiatives-against-gender-based-violence > Updated: 2026-09-09T06:19:00.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Italian universities are implementing various measures to address and combat gender-based violence and femicide. The University of Siena has introduced a financial support program for the 2026/2027 academic year. This initiative offers scholarships of 12,000 euros gross per year, paid in monthly installments, alongside full exemptions from university fees for students certified as victims of domestic violence through protection programs. Other institutions are focusing on education and awareness. In Catanzaro, a conference titled ‘Non chiamatelo amore’ (Don’t call it love) is scheduled for October to help young people distinguish between respect and controlling behaviors. Meanwhile, the University of Florence is conducting an interdisciplinary course covering the psychological, legal, and cultural aspects of violence, including stalking and digital violence. Rector Alessandra Petrucci stated that universities have a responsibility to provide the community with tools to “recognize risk and act effectively.” ## Timeline ### 2026-09-09: Italian universities launch initiatives to combat gender-based violence Italian universities in Catanzaro and Florence are launching educational programs and conferences to prevent gender-based violence and promote a culture of respect. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-universities-launch-initiatives-to-combat-gender-based-violence ### 2026-08-24: University of Siena announces scholarships for victims of domestic violence The University of Siena is offering 12,000 euros in annual scholarships and full tuition exemptions for students who are victims of domestic violence for the 2026/2027 academic year. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-siena-announces-scholarships-for-victims-of-domestic-violence --- Cite as: Italian university initiatives against gender-based violence. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/italian-university-initiatives-against-gender-based-violence