An Italian Army General wrote a book with anti-democratic, racist, and homophobic ideas. This behavior is unacceptable for a representative of the Armed Forces. We demand his immediate resignation.
Update – 28 February 2024: General Roberto Vannacci has been suspended for 11 months, with reduction in seniority and halving of his salary, following the controversy raised by his book. This decision, taken by Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, aims to highlight the serious lack of responsibility and the damage to the neutrality of the Armed Forces caused by his statements. An appeal against the suspension has already been announced by the General's defenders. We continue to fight against the spread of racist and homophobic ideas. Sign now to show your support and insist on a military environment based on respect and equality.
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Update – 04 December 2023: Today, General Roberto Vannacci was appointed as Chief of Staff of the Land Operations Forces Command, despite the initiation of a disciplinary investigation following the controversy caused by his book. It is necessary to continue to speak out against the spread of anti-democratic, racist and homophobic ideas by senior representatives of the Armed Forces.
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Update – August 18, 2023: Today, it was announced that General Vannacci will be transferred to the Land Operations Forces Command. Despite this, his continued presence at the top of the Army tarnishes the reputation of the Armed Forces. Many individuals in uniform feel that their well-being at work is compromised and threatened due to insufficient protection. It's imperative that pressure is maintained until the General is fully relieved of his duties and service to the country.
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It is deeply concerning and alarming that a sitting army general would pen a political essay steeped in anti-democratic, racist, and homophobic ideas, in direct conflict with the Italian Constitution. This not only poses a significant threat to Italy but also undermines the integrity of the Italian Armed Forces.
The book includes statements such as "Dear gays, you are not normal. Get over it," and "normality is heterosexuality. If everything seems normal to you, it's due to the machinations of the international gay lobby." Such remarks deeply offend the entire Italian LGBT+ community.
General Vannacci's comments are both grave and troubling, reflecting the current climate in Italy and how certain individuals feel emboldened and politically shielded to voice such hatred.
We demand the immediate resignation of General Vannacci. He cannot and should not represent the Italian Armed Forces. His stance and beliefs are in direct conflict with the values and principles of the Italian Republic.
Sign this petition to help us uphold the core values of our republic and ensure that those representing the Italian Armed Forces adhere to these principles.
This campaign is run by Associazione Radicale Certi Diritti, in partnership with Keshet Italia – Gruppo Ebraico lgbtqai+ and Polis Aperta.
