The plight of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, currently imprisoned in Iran, has prompted significant diplomatic efforts from the Italian government as her mother, Elisabetta Vernoni, seeks answers and support. Following her daughter's arrest under reportedly harsh conditions, Vernoni recently met with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Palazzo Chigi, where she conveyed her concerns and received reassurance about the government's commitment to Sala's case.
"This meeting with Giorgia Meloni helped me: we looked each other in the eyes, as mothers do. I have great trust; they are definitely working on it, and I’m a bit like Cecilia, I’m sort of a soldier, waiting and respecting the work they are doing," Vernoni shared after the meeting.
Elisabetta Vernoni expressed relief to hear messages she had long hoped for from the Prime Minister, asserting, "Meloni made significant strides beyond the typical reassurances I always receive. She was more precise and on point, and that's what I wanted and what I got." After facing difficult news from her daughter about the conditions of her detention at Evin Prison, Vernoni was particularly vocal about the significant toll such treatment could have on Cecilia and other detainees.
"The prison conditions for a 29-year-old girl who has done nothing must not leave permanent scars," she stated. Vernoni also mentioned her daughter's challenging circumstances, including being forced to sleep on the floor without proper bedding. "I was told there are no single cells, only communal detention and punitive cells, and she is one of those evidently. It's hard to fathom how someone can live like this in 2024," she lamented.
The Italian government articulated its continuing commitment to pressing Iranian authorities for Sala's immediate release, emphasizing the need for humane treatment during her time of detention. According to a statement from Palazzo Chigi, "The government confirms its commitment to the Iranian authorities for the immediate liberation of Cecilia Sala, and, pending this, for respectful treatment of human dignity."
The situation has garnered considerable attention, leading to urgent meetings among high-ranking government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, and the Minister of Justice, Carlo Nordio. Their discussions centered not only on securing Sala's release but also on addressing the broader concerns surrounding the treatment of detainees.
Elisabetta Vernoni described the emotional turmoil she faced, having struggled to receive timely updates about her daughter’s well-being. Communication with Cecilia is sparse, and Vernoni relayed, "I haven't heard from Cecilia since yesterday. The calls are infrequent and often surprising; they come when they want to. I was left hoping for more reassuring news, but instead, her messages raise more questions. I asked her if she had a clean pillow to rest her head, and she replied, ‘Mom, I don’t have a pillow.’"
Upon reflecting on the government’s role, Vernoni expressed her determination to advocate for Cecila. "I want important and strong decisions from our country to be made for her return to Italy. I am not whining or asking for timelines—these are very unique circumstances. The government is working hard, and I will do my part. I definitely trust they’re doing their best."
Despite the uncertainty, Vernoni remains optimistic. "This meeting has helped me. It was important to see each other face to face, especially under such circumstances. The trust is there; I believe they’re working on this, and I await news with respect for their process." Her faith reflects not only her personal struggle but also the collective hopes of many who advocate for justice and humane treatment of prisoners abroad.
While there is still considerable uncertainty surrounding Cecilia Sala's situation, the meeting between Vernoni and Meloni has shed light on both the challenges they face and the commitment from the Italian government to advocate for her release. Every day matters as various diplomatic avenues are explored to bring Sala back home safely, highlighting the importance of families and governments working together to achieve justice.
Elisabetta Vernoni hopes for updates soon, as she anxiously waits for news of her daughter's fate. "I have received generic information, but I eagerly await more precise developments. The conditions surrounding her imprisonment must be improved to prevent lasting impacts on her life," she concluded steadfastly.