Italian Journalist Fined for Body Shaming Premier Giorgia Meloni

A Milan judge has ordered journalist Giulia Cortese to pay 5,000 euros to Premier Giorgia Meloni for body shaming her on social media. The posts, which included digitally altered images and height-related insults, prompted legal action by Meloni. Cortese criticized the ruling, citing threats to free expression.

A Milan judge has ordered journalist Giulia Cortese to pay 5,000 euros (almost USD 5,500) in damages to Premier Giorgia Meloni for body-shaming remarks on social media.

The ruling stated that two social media posts by Cortese, who also received a suspended fine of 1,200 euros (USD 1,300), constituted 'body shaming'. The posts included a digitally altered image of Meloni with an image of Fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.

Meloni, then in opposition, deemed the image of 'unique gravity' and pursued legal action. Cortese further insulted Meloni's height, drawing criticism on free speech grounds and considering an appeal. If damages are paid, Meloni intends to donate the 5,000 euros to charity.

(With inputs from agencies.)