The Embassy of Italy in Yangon has joined the initiative of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation which involves the installation of red benches in Italian diplomatic-consular offices around the world, as a symbol of the fight against gender-based violence. The initiative was launched by the Vice President of the Council and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Antonio Tajani, last 8th March on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
Upon the inauguration, we would like to recall the words expressed by Vice President Tajani on that day: “the red bench is a symbol of the empty place left in society by a woman victim of femicide: we must sit on those benches and give our support to women not only against violence, but also against any kind of discrimination”. The Minister had also reaffirmed his solidarity “with the women, girls and children living in areas of crisis and conflict, as well as with the women and girls who courageously claim their right to participate in the political, economic, social and cultural life of their country”.
The installation of the bench in the Embassy compound was carried out a few days before the Italian Republic Day, which will also mark the 78th anniversary of the first universal suffrage vote in our country. The Embassy will also recall the themes of violence against women, women empowerment and gender equality during the “Italian Film Weekend”, which will be organised as a part of the “Fare Cinema” initiative, notably with the film “There’s Still Tomorrow” by Paola Cortellesi, which will close the event on 2nd June.