Crimes of passion against women are a problem in Italy.
Julia Khrebtan-Hörhager, associate professor of communication studies at Colorado State University, delves into why.
Julia Khrebtan-Hörhager is an Associate Professor of Communication at Colorado State University and a Director of Education Abroad programs in Europe. She is a holder of three International Communication Association Top Paper Awards, CSU College of Liberal Arts Best Teacher Award, and four Capstone Awards. Her research interests are in intercultural and international communication, European studies, global conflict, international cinematography, Othering, and critical media studies. She is the author of two books, Communicating the Other across Cultures and Migrant World Making, and has published numerous articles and book chapters in edited volumes. Julia’s non-academic experiences include serving as a peace corps liaison in Ukraine, a creative director at an international children’s center in Crimea, an interpreter for a technology company in Germany, a founding partner of a consulting group, and a program director of ACT Human Rights Film Festival in the USA. Dr. Khrebtan-Hörhager is fluent in seven languages and is often called “a cultural mentor” and “an intercultural ambassador” by her colleagues and students.
Femicide in Italy
Femicide is the killing of a woman because she is a woman. It is not random violence. It is a crime driven by power, control, and deep misogyny. Most cases are committed by partners, ex-partners, or family members. Many happen in abusive relationships. Others stem from harmful traditions like so-called “honor killings.”
This is more than a crime. It is a crisis. A culture that devalues women allows femicide to persist. Ending it requires more than punishment, it demands changes in laws, attitudes, and culture.
Why is femicide so common in Italy?
A Patriarchal Society – For centuries, Italian culture placed men in control. Women were expected to be submissive. This mindset still lingers, making male violence seem “normal” to some.
Historical Influence – Ancient Rome treated women as property. Fascism reinforced strict gender roles. Catholicism emphasized women’s duty to family over personal freedom. These ideas still shape attitudes today.
Weak Laws & Protections – Until 1981, Italian law gave lighter sentences for “honor” killings. Today, many women at risk are ignored by authorities until it’s too late.
Romanticizing Violence – Murders of women are often called “crimes of passion,” making them seem like emotional outbursts rather than brutal acts of control.
Limited Support for Women – Divorce, abortion, and domestic violence protections remain difficult to access. Many women feel trapped.
The ‘Mammoni’ Culture – Many Italian men are raised as mammoni— “mama’s boys” who struggle with independence. This fosters entitlement, making some react violently to rejection or loss of control.
Femicide does not happen in isolation. It is the result of a culture still struggling with gender equality. Change is coming—but not fast enough. Until Italy confronts these deep-rooted issues, its daughters will never be truly safe or free.
Read More:
Author Communicating the Other across Cultures
Editor & Author Migrant World Making
Program Director ACT International Human Rights Film Festival
Director & Leader Communication in Rome Education Abroad Program
