"Violence against women has worrisome statistics. This is a behavior that is unjustified and is anchored in inequalities, gender stereotypes, and cultures that either tolerate or minimize abuse, which frequently occurs in the family environment". This is how a statement from the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, begins on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. "The Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, known as the Istanbul Convention, is the first legally binding instrument to recognize gender-based violence as a human rights violation. Italy ratified the Convention in 2013, equipping itself with tools to ensure full protection for victims of gender-based violence. However, what has been done so far is not enough to safeguard women, including very young ones, who continue to see their rights violated. This is an ongoing emergency. These are moms, sisters, daughters, individuals with ideas and projects who see their right to live a free and dignified life violated; women who battle for their freedom and the ability to determine their own fate. ‘No Excuse’ is the theme proposed by the United Nations for today’s observance. It is almost unnecessary to emphasize that, indeed, no excuses are acceptable to justify gender-based violence. Concrete actions are required. It is imperative to persist in the effort to eliminate the prejudices and discriminatory attitudes that continue to undermine women's status in society, the workplace, and the family. Institutions and civil society forces must assist women in reporting any form of abuse and providing proper protection and support. It is a value for the entire society to ensure that the human rights of the female universe are completely protected".