Naples, March 21, 2026 – Naples observed the 31st National Day of Remembrance and Commitment in memory of the innocent victims of the mafias with a solemn ceremony at Piazza Municipio. Antonio De Iesu, Councillor for Municipal Police and Legality, and Ciro Esposito, Commander of the Local Police, laid flowers at the monument dedicated to magistrates Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino and the members of their escort.
The commemoration, which took place on Friday, March 21, 2026, saw the participation of Libera, an association of names and numbers against the mafias, represented by Geppino Fiorenza, who also laid flowers at the memorial.
A Tribute and an Inspiration for the Future
Councillor De Iesu emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “We want to remember the many people who sacrificed their lives so that all of us today can live in a democratic and free society. But this ceremony is not just a tribute: it is a memory that must project into the future.” He stressed the need to engage young people in preserving the memory of these tragic events, highlighting their role as fundamental roots for society.
De Iesu addressed the youth directly: “To the young people, I say: take care of your education, cultivate your values, and be inspired by the sense of duty and the great spirit of responsibility demonstrated by so many exponents of civil society, the judiciary, and institutions, who contributed to the construction of our country’s democratic life.”
The Legacy of Falcone and Borsellino
The ceremony specifically honored Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, two anti-mafia magistrates who were assassinated in 1992. Their commitment and sacrifice remain a powerful symbol in the fight against organized crime in Italy. The monument at Piazza Municipio, located at the foot of the ‘tree of legality,’ serves as a constant reminder of their courage and the ongoing struggle for justice.
National Day of Remembrance and Commitment
The 31st National Day of Remembrance and Commitment in memory of the victims of the mafias is an annual event observed across Italy. It aims to honor those who lost their lives to organized crime and to reinforce the collective commitment to legality and justice. The day provides an opportunity for reflection and education, particularly for younger generations, about the devastating impact of the mafias and the importance of civic engagement.
The Role of Libera
Libera, an organization founded by Father Luigi Ciotti, plays a crucial role in promoting a culture of legality and fighting against the mafias. Through various initiatives, including the National Day of Remembrance, Libera works to support victims’ families, educate the public, and advocate for stronger anti-mafia policies. Their presence at the Naples ceremony underscores the broad societal commitment to this cause.
Naples’ Ongoing Commitment to Legality
Naples, a city that has historically grappled with the presence of organized crime, demonstrates its unwavering commitment to legality through such commemorations. The participation of high-ranking municipal officials, alongside civil society organizations, signals a unified front against criminal elements and a dedication to fostering a safe and just environment for its citizens.
The message conveyed during the ceremony resonated with the city’s ongoing efforts to instill values of responsibility and civic duty among its youth, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past serve as a powerful impetus for a better future.
