Roberto Vannacci, leader of the new Italian right-wing party Futuro Nazionale, sparked a debate in Italy over gender roles with the launch of his party's first manifesto on Wednesday.
In the manifesto, the 57-year-old former army general presents what he terms the "Mediterranean Patriarchy" as a social model that should be preserved.
This model is said to aim to "emphasize the differences between the sexes and to nurture strong men who are capable of controlling their emotions and passions, protecting women and dedicating themselves to building and defending society."
The wording drew criticism from left-wing parties. Valeria Valente of the largest opposition party, the Partito Democratico, described Vannacci's ideas as an "absurd programme for a return to the Middle Ages." It is precisely male control over women that forms the basis for femicide, she argued.
Vannacci launched his new party in February. He had previously been a member of Matteo Salvini's right-wing populist ruling party, the Lega, but left it following a dispute over its political direction.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing government is now under pressure because Vannacci's rhetoric resonates with many people who have previously supported the three governing parties.