Elly Schlein, the secretary of the Democratic Party in Italy, has come under fire after announcing her visit to Molise, facing a barrage of online insults, including sexist remarks. The attacks, reported by Manuela Vigilante, the regional spokesperson for the Molise Democratic Women's Conference, originated from both men and women, highlighting a troubling trend of online harassment directed at female public figures.
During her trip on March 29, 2025, Schlein visited the towns of Termoli and Campobasso as part of a Democratic Party initiative focused on the third sector. However, her announcement was met with a disturbing wave of comments that included phrases such as "È il mio sogno erotico… sono ansioso di vederla.." ("It's my erotic dream... I'm eager to see her..."), "Ma trovati un fidanzato se ci riesci e vai a c…." ("But find yourself a boyfriend if you can and go to hell..."), and "Sta pezza di m… viene anche a Termoli marciume depravati" ("This piece of crap is coming to Termoli, depraved rot"). These comments were highlighted by the local news outlet Primonumero.it.
Vigilante condemned the sexist comments, emphasizing that such attacks often target women's physical appearance and sexual orientation, revealing a broader societal issue regarding the treatment of women in politics. "When people lack content and cannot make constructive criticism, they resort to personal attacks, including physical appearance and sexual orientation," she stated. Vigilante pointed out that women have always been the preferred targets of online trolls, or "keyboard lions," who feel emboldened to launch personal assaults from behind their screens.
The regional spokesperson also noted that some individuals have taken to creating collages featuring the faces of female politicians, members of the European Parliament, and women in entertainment who openly align with the center-left. These collages are often accompanied by the crude comment, "Le voglio tutte a Termoli" ("I want them all in Termoli"), further emphasizing the objectification and disrespect faced by women in public life.
Vigilante, representing the Molise Democratic Women's Conference, urged solidarity among women in the face of such hostility. "A name of the entire Molise Democratic Women's Conference, I suggest adding our faces too: we are not afraid. We do not fear your words filled with violence and hatred; we do not fear your sexist insults," she declared, standing firm against the barrage of negativity.
The incident has sparked conversations about the treatment of women in politics and the necessity for a cultural shift in how female leaders are perceived and treated in the public sphere. Schlein's experience is not unique; many women in politics and public life face similar challenges, often navigating a landscape rife with misogyny and personal attacks.
This situation highlights the urgent need for greater accountability and support for women in political roles. As they strive to make meaningful contributions to society, it is crucial that they are not undermined by toxic online behavior that seeks to silence their voices through intimidation and harassment. The Molise Democratic Women's Conference's response stands as a testament to resilience and the imperative for change in societal attitudes towards women.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the experiences of leaders like Schlein can serve as a catalyst for discussions about gender equality and the respect that should be afforded to all individuals, regardless of their gender or political affiliation. The fight against sexism and online harassment remains a pressing issue, requiring collective action and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and respectful political environment.
In the face of adversity, Schlein and her supporters remain undeterred, embodying a spirit of perseverance that calls for a more equitable future. Their message is clear: they will not be silenced or intimidated by hateful rhetoric, and they will continue to advocate for their beliefs and the rights of all women.
