Rainbow Families: The Italian Challenge

By Veronica Fantaguzzi

In Italy, the reality of LGBT families remains complex and multifaceted, oscillating between deep-rooted discrimination and glimmers of hope. In fact, the current government, with its promises of a return to "traditional values" and its opposition to same-sex adoption, is creating an unacceptable climate of hostility and uncertainty.

This has manifested itself in several ways, including:

• Legislative blockage:

The forces of the current majority in the Italian Parliament have obstructed bills that would expand the rights of LGBT people, such as legislation on same-sex marriage (DDL Cirinnà) and the law against queerphobia (DDL Zan). In 2019, the DDL Cirinnà, which would have introduced civil marriage equality for same-sex couples, was not approved by the Senate after a long and heated debate, the law was then approved with modifications creating "civil unions".  In 2021, the DDL Zan, which would have introduced measures against homophobia and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, was blocked in the Senate due to obstruction by members of right-wing and conservative parties.

• Reduction of funding for LGBT organizations:

Government funding for programs that support the LGBT community has been cut or redirected, hindering awareness-raising efforts and essential services.

In fact, between 2018 and 2021, the Fund for Policies for Younger Generations suffered a 40% cut, with a negative impact on the projects and activities of LGBT associations that benefited from it.

In addition, the government has reduced funding for sex education in schools, limiting access to information and support for LGBT students.

More recently, Italy refused to sign the European Union declaration on LGBT rights, a Belgian initiative on the occasion of the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. This refusal fits into a broader context of increasingly disappearing rights in favor of harsh far-right propaganda, as evident by Italy's loss of positions in ILGA-Europe's Rainbow Map. ILGA-Europe's Rainbow Map, first produced in 2009, is an annual ranking of 49 European countries on a scale between 0% (serious violations of human rights, discrimination) and 100% (respect for human rights, full equality). Italy drops to thirteth place, last among the founding EU countries.

Despite the legislative and political challenges, the LGBT community has achieved some important victories in recent years, including:

• Supreme Court ruling no. 23269/2022: The Supreme Court ruled that for lesbian couples having children through IVF, the non-carrying mother has the right to adopt the child. This ruling has opened the way to the recognition of a parental bond also for the non-carrying mother, who was previously excluded.

• Constitutional Court ruling no. 79/2022: The Constitutional Court declared Article 55 of the adoption law, which prevented single homosexuals from adopting, unconstitutional. This decision removed a significant obstacle to adoption by LGBT people and represented a fundamental step forward for equal rights.

The next battles are increasingly urgent and include the fight against discrimination in all spheres of public and private life, such as access to work and health services, and the right to form a family. This is why LGBT rights organizations are working on multiple fronts to combat discrimination and promote inclusion, to obtain the fundamental recognition of rainbow families, as well as greater protection against violence and micro-aggressions, especially in the workplace.

Italian LGBT organizations are committed to:

• Public education campaigns: LGBT organizations work to raise public awareness of LGBT issues, challenge stereotypes and prejudices, and promote a culture of respect and inclusion. Among the best-known initiatives is Amnesty International's "I am Piera'' campaign against homophobia and transphobia.

• Legal defense: LGBT legal teams provide legal support to same-sex couples and families who experience discrimination and work to challenge discriminatory laws in court. An example is the work of the organization Rete Lenford, which offers legal assistance to LGBT people who are victims of discrimination.

Italy is therefore at a crossroads: on the one hand, the possibility of regressing to a past of intolerance and discrimination; on the other, the opportunity to build a more inclusive and just future for all, where LGBT families are not only accepted but fully valued and protected. 

A Brighter Future for Rainbow Families in Italy.

Despite the undeniable challenges posed by the current political climate, the fight for equality for LGBT families in Italy is far from over. The recent legal victories, coupled with the unwavering efforts of LGBT organizations, illuminate a path towards a more inclusive future.

Moving forward, the focus must be on dismantling the remaining barriers to true equality. This includes securing comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, ensuring equal access to public services like healthcare and employment, and most importantly, achieving full recognition for rainbow families.

Italian LGBT organizations are at the forefront of this battle, employing public education campaigns to foster understanding and acceptance. Legal teams are actively challenging discriminatory laws and providing vital support to same-sex couples and families facing prejudice.

The journey towards a society where LGBT families are not just accepted, but celebrated, will require sustained effort. However, the resilience of the LGBT community, combined with growing social awareness and crucial legal advancements, offer a glimmer of hope. Italy has the potential to become a beacon of inclusivity, where love and family transcend the limitations of sexual orientation. By continuing the fight for full recognition and fostering a culture of respect, Italy can ensure that all families, regardless of their composition, can thrive.