Susanna Riva Italy pauses to remember Emma Bonino, the radical leader who passed away in Rome on September 13, 2026, at the age of 78. A life dedicated to the defense of civil rights and her commitment to a united Europe, Bonino left an indelible mark on our country's political history.
The news of his death has shaken the political world, with messages of condolence arriving from all over the political spectrum.
The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, expressed his deep sorrow, remembering Bonino as one of the most lucid and courageous protagonists of our history.
The life and battles of Emma Bonino
Emma Bonino has lived a life of relentless political commitment . From fighting for legal abortion to campaigning for human rights , Bonino has always fought for the causes she believed in.
Her personal experience with a clandestine abortion pushed her to dedicate her life to fighting for women's rights.
Throughout her career, Bonino has held numerous positions, including Minister of European Policies and Foreign Affairs and European Commissioner . Her commitment to European integration and international justice has been recognized globally.
The battles for civil rights
Emma Bonino was a pioneer in the fight for civil rights . She fought for the abolition of the death penalty, for international justice , and against female genital mutilation . Her determination and courage inspired generations of activists.
Among her most famous battles is the one for legal abortion . Bonino experienced firsthand the fear and humiliation of a clandestine abortion and decided to dedicate her life to ensuring that no woman ever had to face the same experience again. Her fight led to civil achievements that made Italy a freer and more just country.
Italy's emotional farewell
The news of Emma Bonino's death has shocked Italy. President Sergio Mattarella expressed his deep sorrow , remembering Bonino as one of the most lucid and courageous figures in our history. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also announced that a state funeral is underway.
Numerous messages of condolence have arrived from across the political spectrum. Forza Italia Secretary Antonio Tajani remembered Bonino as an intelligent woman with whom he always had a respectful and fair dialogue . Democratic Party Secretary Elly Schlein remembered Bonino as a woman of extraordinary courage who contributed to innovating the forms of politics.
The secretary of Più Europa, Riccardo Magi, expressed his grief in front of the Nostra Signora della Mercede Nursing Home, where Bonino died. He recalled how Bonino taught that political skill lies not in power but in the desire and ability to fight.
Italia Viva leader Matteo Renzi also remembered Bonino as an icon of parliamentary institutions . He emphasized how Bonino brought a different approach to the parliamentary institutions than the conventional ones and fought against much of the prevailing thinking.
The events of September 13, 2026
September 13, 2026, was a day of great events in Italy. In addition to the emotional farewell to Emma Bonino, there were numerous political and sporting events. In Rome, Bonino's funeral chapel was held in the Protomoteca Hall of the Capitoline Hill .
In Montesilvano, Forza Italia organized the youth festival "Azzurra Libertà" with its secretary Tajani. In Marina di Pietrasanta, Five Star Movement president Conte attended the Fatto Quotidiano festival . In Reggio Emilia, Democratic Party secretary Schlein gave the closing speech at the National Unity Festival.
In the world of sport, the MotoGP World Championship saw races in Misano Adriatico, while the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix was held in Madrid. In Italy, Serie A matches were held such as Lecce-Monza, Napoli-Bologna, and Sassuolo-Juventus. In Modena, Italy played against Slovakia in the men's European Volleyball Championship.
Finally, in New York, the US Open men's singles final between Zverev and Shelton took place .