Italian lawmakers approved the creation of a committee that could draft laws to treat sex criminals with androgen-blocking drugs, according to Politico.
The Lower House of Parliament in Rome passed a motion stating that treatment should be consistent, reversible, and aimed at reducing the risk of re-offending. It obliged the government to establish a relevant committee.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration is attempting to enforce law and order rigorously. It led the redevelopment of Caivano, a dysfunctional town on the outskirts of Naples. The town became a symbol of crime and deprivation after the gang rape of two preteen cousins, for which five people were convicted.
According to the proposals, the League, part of Meloni’s governing coalition, which made passing legislation to chemically castrate paedophiles and rapists a key part of its platform, put forward the motion. Under it, those convicted of sexual crimes could receive a suspended sentence in exchange for undergoing hormone blocking treatment.
League chief Matteo Salvini welcomed the news.
Victory for the League! Good. Another important step forward for our historic battle for justice and common sense: zero tolerance for rapists and pedophiles.
However, the opposition, such as MP Simona Bonafè of the Democratic Party, called the proposal “extremist” and “in violation of humanity and justice.” Enrico Borghi of the Italia Viva party also stated:
What’s next? Tar and feathers, or rope and soap?
Chemical castration involves taking drugs that inhibit the release of hormones stimulating testosterone production. The libido is thereby reduced.
Mandatory chemical castration is legal in Russia and Poland, as well as in some US states for certain offences. However, there are doubts about its effectiveness in preventing repeat offences. Experts also warn of possible physical and psychological side effects.
Current Italian Justice Minister Carlo Nordio called the proposal “a return to medieval times.”
