Introduction

Abstract

A law recently passed in Italy mandates the temporary increased representation of females on boards of publicly listed and state-owned companies in Italy. The law requires that these boards have at least 33% male and female genders respectively, and sets a target of 20% for the first of the three mandates during which the law will remain in force. In the event of non-compliance, a progressive warning system with monetary fines culminates in the eventual dissolution of the board. While traditionally a poor performer on issues of gender equality, this new law has the potential to make Italy ‘best in class’.