Italy PM Meloni Condemns Online Abuse Targeting Women

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has voiced outrage after revelations about a pornographic website that posted manipulated and non-consensual images of women, including her own. The platform, which operated for nearly two decades, has been shut down amid mounting legal complaints and public outcry.

The website, active since 2005 with more than 200,000 users, hosted doctored photos and videos of women, often accompanied by explicit, degrading commentary. Victims ranged from ordinary citizens to high-profile figures, among them opposition leader Elly Schlein, European lawmaker Alessandra Moretti, and influencer Chiara Ferragni. Content was categorized by city and region, making women easily identifiable.

Meloni, Italy’s first female prime minister, said she was “disgusted” and expressed solidarity with all women “offended and violated in their intimacy.” She condemned the persistence of such misogynistic practices in 2025, noting that they are often perpetrated under the cover of online anonymity.

Equality Minister Eugenia Roccella pledged government action, announcing plans for legal and cultural reforms to counter digital abuse and gender-based violence.

The scandal follows a recent uproar over a Facebook group called “Mia Moglie” (“My Wife”), where users shared intimate images of women without consent. That group was taken down by Meta after women’s rights activists exposed its content.

Alessandra Moretti has filed a criminal complaint, describing the material as an incitement to rape and violence. Women’s rights advocates argue the incident highlights systemic misogyny and the urgent need for stronger digital protections.

The case has sparked a wider debate across Italy about online safety, consent, and the responsibility of tech platforms to curb abuse. Critics insist that accountability must extend beyond shutting down harmful sites, calling for comprehensive measures to safeguard women from exploitation in digital spaces.