In a groundbreaking moment, the Italian parliament witnessed an unprecedented event on Wednesday as lawmaker Gilda Sportiello breastfed her son Federico in the Chamber of Deputies. This historic act received a round of applause from fellow members, highlighting a significant step forward in a traditionally male-dominated environment.
The sight of a baby occupying a seat in the Italian parliament is not a common occurrence, making this moment even more noteworthy. Acting lower-house speaker Giorgio Mule acknowledged the significance of the event and the unanimous support from all political parties. He extended his best wishes to Federico, expressing hopes for a long, free, and peaceful life, before requesting a calm and respectful atmosphere in the chamber.
Last November, a parliamentary rules panel granted permission for women lawmakers to bring their children into the chamber and breastfeed them until the age of one. This decision was motivated by the recognition that many women are compelled to discontinue breastfeeding prematurely due to the need to return to work.
Italien, heute.
Gilda Sportiello ist die erste Abgeordnete, die mit einem Neugeborenen in die Abgeordnetenkammer erscheint und ihr Baby Federico stillt. Der Applaus der gesamten Versammlung war lang und intensiv. pic.twitter.com/ZFytixegus— TheMissRossi 🍋 (@TheMissRossi) June 7, 2023
Gilda Sportiello, representing the left-leaning 5-Star Movement, emphasized the importance of this new provision, stating that too many women are forced to abandon breastfeeding due to external pressures. The policy change aims to support and empower women, allowing them to continue breastfeeding while fulfilling their parliamentary duties.
Italy’s political landscape has been undergoing gradual transformation, with Giorgia Meloni assuming office as the country’s first female prime minister in October. However, men still comprise around two-thirds of the country’s lawmakers, emphasizing the significance of this milestone in promoting gender inclusivity and family-friendly policies within the parliament.
Although this event marks the first time such an act has taken place in the Italian parliament, it is not entirely unprecedented in European politics. Thirteen years ago, Licia Ronzulli, now a senator in the centre-right Forza Italia party, made headlines when she breastfed her daughter in the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
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