Department of Political and Social Science alumna Marina Calloni was invested as ‘Officer’ in the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (Ordine al merito della Repubblica Italiana).
The highest ranking honour of the Republic, it is awarded for ‘merit acquired by the nation’ in the fields of literature, the arts, economy, public service, and social, philanthropic and humanitarian activities and for long and conspicuous service in civilian and military careers.
Throughout her career, Calloni, Professor of Social and Political Philosophy at the University of Milano-Bicocca, has focused especially on political theory, the defence of human rights, and gender inequality.
At Italian and European levels, she has served as consultant on issues ranging from feminicide and the prevention of gender violence to gender equality in research and higher education.
In spring 2020, Calloni was appointed by then-Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte to the ‘Committee of experts in economics and social affairs’ (Colao Commission), which was tasked with planning Italy’s economic and social reopening following the Covid-19 crisis.
In her reaction to the honour, Professor Calloni said that "The presidential honour was for me totally unexpected and this makes me more honoured for that. This recognition contributes to strengthen further my scientific research, educational commitment and civic engagement in defence of human rights and the struggle against gender-based violence and any form of discrimination."