Narrative and femicide: a testimony to say no to relationships that kill

Abstract

Femicide continues to be a current and growing tragedy worldwide. Scientific studies show that this violent and complex phenomenon often corresponds to the culmination of a cycle of physical, sexual, psychological, economic and institutional abuse, and frequently involves partners or ex-partners of the victims. Despite legislative progress and awareness-raising campaigns, the number of women killed for gender-related reasons continues to rise, highlighting the persistence of structures based on a male-dominated culture and the need for more effective interventions. The fight against femicide requires multidisciplinary interventions including legislative policies, prevention and victim support educational programmes and widespread public information actions. This contribution presents considerations, evaluations and pedagogical suggestions arising from the dialogue with A.R. Calavalle former athlete, Olympic coach and university researcher, survivor of a brutal attempt at femicide, today a consultant to the Bicameral Commission of Inquiry on femicide and on all forms of gender-based violence.