Guest Speaker Dr. Ludovica Bargellini

Addressing the intersections of domestic violence and housing struggles:

A Feminist Critical Analysis

Ludovica Bargellini (University of Palermo)

Friday, September 27, 2024

12:15-1:45pm

Hall Building, Room H-1220

Increasing rates of domestic violence emphasize the need to examine the role of housing in the lives of women who experience gender-based violence (GBV). Domestic violence, a subtle and pervasive form of oppression, often takes place in the home. Housing conditions impact women's experiences of domestic abuse and their decisions to stay in or leave abusive relationships. Insecure tenure, financial instability, and the fear of homelessness often compel women to remain in abusive situations. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of GBV by focusing on the socio-economic rights of survivors. Through a feminist methodology, it examines whether domestic violence constitutes a violation of women's right to housing, if housing policies adequately address the needs of victims, and whether these policies have been gender biased. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive legislation to address the gendered dynamics of domestic violence, emphasizing secure housing as a preventive measure.

Ludovica Bargellini holds an MA in Law from the University of Florence and is a PhD candidate in Human Rights at the University of Palermo. Her research focuses on gender studies, women’s rights, queer studies, and housing rights.