Topics Covered
A tragic event that shook Milan
The recent sexual assaults that occurred during New Year's Eve celebrations in Milan have raised a wave of indignation and concern among citizens and authorities. Among the victims, a student from Liège and some of her friends, along with two young Englishmen, reported being surrounded and harassed by a group of men. This episode is not an isolated one, as the Milan prosecutor's office is investigating at least five cases of alleged sexual abuse, also involving other Italian and foreign victims.
The phenomenon of collective harassment
The investigations have uncovered a disturbing phenomenon known as “taharrush gamea,” which refers to collective harassment and mass sexual assault. The Arabic term first emerged in Egypt in 2005, during feminist protests in Tahrir Square, and has gained notoriety in other contexts, such as New Year’s Eve celebrations in Cologne in 2015. Investigators in Milan are examining surveillance footage to identify those responsible and better understand the dynamics of the events.
The reactions of the authorities and society
Authorities in Milan have called on potential victims and witnesses to come forward and provide information to the investigation. The situation has raised questions about public safety and the need for more effective preventive measures during crowded events. The testimony of the student from Liège, who described a traumatic experience, highlighted the vulnerability of women in crowded situations. Other victims, including a woman from Lombardy and a couple from Reggio Emilia, have also expressed their intention to report, contributing to an increasingly complex picture of assaults.