On Wednesday, May 7, we at UN Women Italy experienced a very important moment: the official launch in Milan of the Italian chapter of HeForShe, the global UN Women movement that invites men to become active allies for gender equality.
It was an intense, well-attended evening, brimming with awareness and a desire to take action.
We’re only at the beginning, but the signs are positive: there’s a need—and a desire—for shared change.
Along this journey, I’m delighted to have appointed Alessandro Rosina as one of the first Italian advocates for HeForShe. A demographer, full professor of Demography and Social Statistics at the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, and a dedicated communicator of issues of equity and social innovation, he is a member of our scientific committee, which I have the honor of coordinating. His contribution will be invaluable in exploring issues related to supporting female employment and youth empowerment.
Also present was Professor Paola Profeta, a member of the scientific committee, pictured here with President Darya Majidi and her board colleague Katja Besseghini.
Along with him, the following were appointed advocates:
- Gino Cecchettin, a courageous public voice against gender violence;
- Alessio Boni, an actor committed to telling stories that put dignity and humanity at the center;
- Ambassador Luca Fratini, Coordinator for the Women, Youth, Peace and Security Agenda at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
- Corrado Tomassini and Filippo Agnello, invaluable members of our UN Women Italy board.
HeForShe is not a declaration. It’s a position. And building alliances means networking skills, visions, and responsibilities.
Gender equality is not a “women’s” issue. It’s a collective responsibility.
This is why initiatives like HeForShe are crucial: because they call on men to be active participants in the change, not spectators. Laws and projects aren’t enough if mentalities, habits, and relationships don’t change.
The culture of equality requires diverse voices, courage, and presence. And it requires people who know how to listen, recognize, and act. Not to lend a hand, but to transform the world we live in together.
