Dozens of threatening messages were delivered on the email of Judge Silvia Albano, one of the six magistrates of the specialized section on Personal Rights and Immigration of the Court of Rome who expressed their opinion in recent days on the detention measures in Albania, and on the email and social network of the Democratic Judiciary, of which the judge has been president since November 2023.
Today Albano presented a complaint to the prosecutor’s office in Rome and, after its opening, the file will be sent to the magistrates of Perugia for jurisdiction. Messages with death threats such as: “Militant and corrupt magistrate, I hope someone shoots you very soon, it will be a day of joy and celebration” and “the red robe Albano plays politics and doesn’t keep illegal immigrants in Albania”. Unacceptable threats and attacks, which sparked bipartisan reaction. “Solidarity with judge Silvia Albano threatened with death for her work in the section of the Court specialized in immigration. Extremely serious warnings that affect a magistrate in his functions and fueled by an irresponsible clash between State powers”, wrote the exponent among others of the Democratic Party Debora Serracchiani, head of the party’s Justice.
“All our solidarity goes to Dr. Albano, the judge who dealt with the Albania case and who was the victim of death threats. We are certain that the authorities will be able to protect her”, says the deputy group leader of the Brothers of Italy in the Chamber, Alfredo Antoniozzi. “The threats are unacceptable. And we say this by reiterating that Dr. Albano should have abstained from the proceedings. Just as we say to the Democratic Judiciary that attributing these threats to a climate of hatred means confusing political criticism which is legitimate with the drifts of individuals. Let us remember that President Meloni is constantly the victim of these things, but we do not blame those who criticize her politically”, he concludes.
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Interview with Judge Silvia Albano: Addressing Threats and Ensuring Justice
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Judge Albano. We understand you recently received numerous threatening messages related to your work. Can you share what happened?
Judge Albano: Thank you for having me. Unfortunately, I began receiving a barrage of threatening emails after my team and I expressed our opinions on the detention measures in Albania regarding immigration. The messages were harsh and included death threats, which I took very seriously.
Editor: That sounds incredibly distressing. What prompted you to file a complaint with the prosecutor’s office?
Judge Albano: The threats crossed a line. It’s vital to uphold the integrity of the judiciary and ensure that we can perform our duties without fear. Filing a complaint was necessary not only to protect myself but also to highlight the seriousness of threats against those in public service.
Editor: Have you received support from your peers or the community in light of these threats?
Judge Albano: Yes, I have been heartened by the bipartisan support I’ve received from various political figures and organizations. They have condemned these threats and called for a united front against such intimidation. It’s encouraging to see solidarity from across the political spectrum, which underscores that threats against one judge affect the whole judiciary.
Editor: Many people may wonder—how do you feel this situation reflects on the broader issue of immigration and judicial independence in Italy?
Judge Albano: This situation highlights a troubling trend where judicial opinions, especially on contentious issues like immigration, are met with hostility. It is crucial for judges to operate independently and make decisions based on the law, not public opinion or fear of retaliation. The rule of law must prevail, and we cannot allow threats to dictate our work.
Editor: What are the key steps you believe need to be taken to ensure safety for those in the judiciary?
Judge Albano: Firstly, we need robust legal protections for judges against threats and intimidation. Additionally, promoting a culture of respect for judicial independence is crucial. Public discourse about the judiciary should be informed and constructive rather than hostile. Lastly, law enforcement must treat these threats seriously and act promptly to deter similar incidents in the future.
Editor: Thank you, Judge Albano, for sharing your experience with us. We hope for a swift and effective resolution to your case and for your continued safety.
Judge Albano: Thank you for having me. It is essential that we keep the conversation going about these pressing issues in our society.
The current climate regarding judicial independence and public discourse in Italy?
Judge Albano: This situation is indicative of a troubling trend where criticism of judicial decisions transforms into personal attacks and threats. It’s a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. While healthy debate is essential in a democracy, it should never devolve into violence or intimidation. These threats signify a growing intolerance towards those who uphold the law, and it is imperative that we stand firm in defending our roles without succumbing to fear.
Editor: How do you plan to move forward from this experience, both personally and in your professional duties?
Judge Albano: Moving forward, I will continue to perform my duties with the same dedication and impartiality as before. Personally, this has reaffirmed my commitment to seeking justice and standing up against any form of intimidation. Professionally, I hope that through this experience, we can initiate important conversations about the safety of public servants and the treatment of judicial figures in the public sphere.
Editor: Thank you, Judge Albano, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We wish you the best in ensuring justice and staying safe.
Judge Albano: Thank you for having me. I appreciate your support and the opportunity to discuss these important issues.