Italy launched its third NAP for the period 2016-2019. The Inter-Ministerial Committee for Human Rights (CIDU) led the development of the NAP with the input of a variety of stakeholders, including civil society, similar to the procedure for the development of the second NAP (2014-2016). The NAP is internally- and externally-oriented with indicators focused on strengthening of the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda (WPS) both inside the country, as well as in conflict and post-conflict situations. The third NAP also specifies that it remains “a living document, which will be enriched over the next three years thanks to the contributions, inputs and actions of all stakeholders” (p. 5). Relevant civil society groups will conduct progress reporting in order to guarantee operational effectiveness and a more holistic and synergetic approach.
Italy has no recent history of conflict within its borders but does play a role internationally on the UNSC, EU, and UN peacekeeping, development, humanitarian and military operations.
The ultimate goals of the recent NAP include (a) to reduce the impact of conflict on women and girls, while promoting their meaningful and transformative participation in prevention, mitigation and resolution of conflict, as well as in decision-making processes, at all levels, and (b) to raise awareness, educate and strengthen existing structures about the WPS Agenda and related issues. Despite this positive message, there are no specific references to the ways in which the NAP will be funded. There is also a separate goal that targets increased women’s participation in the military, which is not consistent with the goal to change patriarchal structures towards gender equality and feminist peace.
At the 23 April 2019 high-level WPS Commitments event, Italy committed to creating a new NAP.