On 8 March 2024, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced the installation of "red benches" in all Italian embassies worldwide. The initiative was promoted by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, and aims to raise awareness of gender-based violence and femicide, a persistent issue in Italy.

According to Minister Tajani, "Italy must take a leading role in promoting gender equality and combating all forms of violence and discrimination against women." The red bench, already widely recognized across Italy, serves as a symbolic reminder of the absence left by victims of femicide. "We must sit on those benches and stand in solidarity with women—not just against violence, but also against discrimination in all its forms," he stated.

The initiative follows a previous measure taken by the Ministry in November 2023, when it established a scholarship program in memory of Giulia Cecchettin murdered in Veneto by her partner. The scholarships are dedicated to international students coming to Italy to support young people in achieving the aspirations that Cecchettin was denied.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Tajani reiterated his solidarity with "women, girls, and children living in conflict zones, as well as those who continue to fight for their right to participate in political, economic, and social life." He also highlighted the Italian Presidency of the G7’s commitment to supporting gender equality initiatives, particularly in Africa. Within the framework of the Mattei Plan, the government intends to promote women empowerment and strengthen the role of women in economic development and climate change response.

The red bench initiative has become a widely recognized symbol of the fight against gender-based violence in Italy since 2015 when it was started by Stati Generali delle Donne HUB. By extending this gesture to embassies worldwide, the Italian government aims to reinforce its commitment for the protection and empowerment of women at an international level.