Well, folks, gather around for another shiny example of how humans can be terrible to each other: 22-year-old Filippo Turetta has been sentenced to life in prison for the charming act of stabbing his ex-girlfriend, Giulia Cecchettin, at least 75 times. Yes, that’s a lot of stab wounds, folks. Just days before her graduation from the University of Padua, her tragic death has sparked nationwide outrage, proving once again that femicide in Italy seems to be more than just an unfortunate trend. Cue the protests.

Giulia’s father, Gino, shared a sentiment that many are feeling. He said while the life sentence does nothing to mend his broken heart, it still highlights the larger dumpster fire that is, you guessed it, gender-based violence. “As a father, nothing has changed since yesterday or a year ago,” he said, probably hoping for some solutions that go beyond simply imprisoning the bad guys.

Let’s dive into some harsher numbers. According to Italy’s interior ministry, this year alone, out of 276 murders, 100 victims were women, and guess what? 88 of them were taken out by current or former partners. Shocking, right? It’s almost like we should be doing something about this.

After this gruesome incident, thousands turned up for Giulia’s funeral and protested, chanting “Patriarchy kills.” Talk about starting a movement! Her family has even started a foundation advocating for educational reforms to tackle violence against women. Go team! But hold onto your seats because the government’s reaction was like a wet blanket over a campfire.

Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara claimed that “male domination no longer exists” and linked violence against women to illegal immigration. Because, you know, why deal with the actual issue when you can just blame someone else? Most femicides in Italy are committed by Italian men. Shocker!

As the debate rages on, Gino Cecchettin is tirelessly advocating for more education and engagement with the youth about healthy relationships. This ongoing crisis isn’t just a one-off tragedy; it’s a glaring issue that could cycle back over and over if ignored. How delightful!

So amidst this grim reality, the demand for comprehensive reform is louder than a toddler throwing a tantrum. Whether this tragic event sparks actual change? Who knows? But let’s all wish that no parent has to experience this kind of heartache again in the twisted human play we call life.