The Historic Journey of Women's Suffrage in Italy: From Lipstick Restrictions to Leadership

Giorgia Meloni's election as Italy's first female prime minister in 2022 marks a significant milestone in the country's political history. This article explores the journey of women's suffrage in Italy, highlighting the challenges faced by women since they first gained the right to vote in 1946. From the peculiar restrictions of that era, such as the prohibition of lipstick at polling stations, to the impressive turnout of women voters, the narrative reveals the evolution of women's roles in politics. Join us as we delve into this fascinating history that underscores the progress made and the ongoing journey toward equality.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 22, 2026, 12:58 IST

A Milestone in Italian History

Giorgia Meloni's ascent to the role of Italy's first female prime minister in 2022 marked a significant chapter in European history. This achievement symbolizes a breakthrough in a nation where women's political participation was once virtually nonexistent. Just 80 years ago, on June 2, 1946, Italian women were granted the right to vote, albeit under certain conditions. During their first experience at the ballot box, many were instructed to remove their lipstick. An article in the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera advised women to avoid wearing lipstick to the polls, citing concerns that it could leave marks on the ballot paper, potentially invalidating their votes. This rule, while framed as a procedural necessity, reflected the biases against female voters and reinforced the perception that their involvement in politics was an anomaly.

The First Vote: A Historic Event

In a piece featured in Federalismi.it, journalist Anna Garofalo recounted the atmosphere at the polling stations on that historic day. She described the long lines of women waiting to vote, comparing the experience to queuing for rationed goods. Many women carried folding stools to rest, while others brought breakfast parcels. Garofalo noted that the conversations between men and women had a different tone, reflecting a newfound equality.

Women’s Participation and the Road to Suffrage

On that day, an impressive 89% of women participated in the voting process, defying the skepticism of some politicians regarding women's interest in political matters. The journey to this right was fraught with challenges, beginning with the Council of Ministers' decision on January 30, 1945, to allow female suffrage. Although the Lieutenant Legislative Decree No. 23 was enacted on February 1, 1945, it still imposed restrictions, excluding women under 21 and sex workers from voting.

Historical Context of Women's Suffrage

The debate over women's voting rights began long before 1945. The first proposal emerged in 1919 during the San Sepolcro Program, associated with Benito Mussolini's political agenda. Initially, Mussolini appeared supportive of women's suffrage, suggesting a gradual approach. However, as he established a dictatorship, democratic principles were abandoned, and women were denied voting rights altogether. It wasn't until 1946 that women were finally included in the electoral process, although remnants of past restrictions lingered, even in something as trivial as lipstick.