Opinion
26th November 2025
A useless law is not a triumph
This morning the Today programme reported that Italy was the first country in Europe to pass a law against femicide, as if this marked a great milestone in human rights. Fifty years ago such an item would probably lead to an interview with an Italian minister asking exactly what such a law could achieve, given that murder is already illegal and considered the worst crime against the person there is. Exactly what is added by a law outlawing an already criminal act against a certain set of victims?
The obvious answer is “Nothing!” A crime which already warrants life imprisonment cannot be made more criminal. It is already criminal to the maximum extent if the concept of extent can mean anything at all in this context. A law which simply duplicates an existing offence clearly achieves nothing in practical terms. It is a crass example of gesture politics at its worst, and demonstrates the ineffectiveness of modern governments at their weakest. The truth is, if Italy has a particular problem with women being murdered, that is either a problem of social attitudes which needs addressing by social policies, or a problem of enforcement to be handled by improving detection and policing. It can’t be helped by pointless legislation.
By reporting the celebrations of a joyous crowd over this imaginary victory rather than addressing the philosophical and justice issues raised, the BBC showed its bias once more, and its failure to address the news seriously and critically.
From a Diverse Diversity viewpoint this is yet another attack on justice for all. Once again a specific group has been singled out for special legal treatment and another nail has been hammered into the coffin of policing without fear or favour, the basis of justice, and our understanding thereof, the world over. Doubtless, following the BBC’s enthusiasm, Pseudo-liberals the world over will demand copycat legislation in other territories and justice will be in retreat across, at least, the Western world. Come on, politicians and journalists, wake up! You need to address real issues with real solutions, not play silly games with empty gimmicks and expect to fool us into thinking you’re doing something.