Generali, the alliances that make the difference

There is a way to address violence against women that, for companies, also involves industrial relations, negotiations with trade unions, and the patient development of contractual clauses that translate into concrete protections. This is what Generali has done, turning this practice into an exemplary model in the Italian corporate landscape: an approach where collective bargaining becomes a tool for prevention and protection, bridging the gap between employees’ needs and corporate responsibility.

This commitment led to the signing of the Zero Tolerance Protocol against all forms of gender-based violence in the workplace, an agreement reached together with trade unions within the discussions of the Joint Equal Opportunities Committee, following the achievement of gender equality certification.

The text commits the company to ensuring a work environment free from any form of violence, harassment, or discrimination, defining behaviors that are not tolerated or allowed within the company and establishing procedures, information mechanisms, and protection pathways for victims. In particular, the agreement provides measures for the prevention and protection against acts of violence and harassment, together with precise reporting processes followed by disciplinary actions, as well as training programs for all employees.

“Generali was the first Italian insurance company to sign a protocol against any act of gender-based violence and/or harassment — an innovative agreement developed with trade unions within the Joint Equal Opportunities Committee, aimed at preventing and combating inappropriate behavior in the workplace,” explains Maria Cristina Muglia, Head of Industrial Relations, Legislation and Litigation at Generali Italia. “It is fundamental for us to promote a corporate culture based on respect, which is why we are committed to preventing and addressing any situation that may endanger the well-being of our people.”

In this context, a dedicated body has been established to manage reports of gender-based harassment and violence. It can be contacted via a specific email channel and ensures confidentiality and protection for both the whistleblower and those involved.

However, the Zero Tolerance Protocol is neither the first nor the last initiative through which Generali has demonstrated its concrete commitment to turning words into actions when it comes to protecting its people’s rights. For years, through company-level bargaining and internal policies, the company has introduced innovative measures to support work-life balance and promote parenthood. Notably, with the company’s supplementary contract signed in April 2025, a dedicated section on social rights was introduced for the first time in the Group’s collective bargaining history — providing concrete tools for protection and support, a tangible demonstration of how seriously the company takes the needs of all its employees.

In addition to formalizing the company’s equal opportunity management process, this new agreement further strengthened concrete protections — for instance, by introducing additional financial support during parental leave to assist with childcare, and by allocating a specific fund for psychological support services within healthcare benefits. These are practical measures that make a real difference for those managing challenging family situations, those needing flexibility during critical times, and those seeking a workplace that not only accepts diversity but actively values it.

Numerous and diverse actions have also been taken to support women’s empowerment and to reduce the gender gap, with the company’s firm commitment to eliminating gender disparities and pay inequalities.

“Since 2021, Generali in Italy has introduced concrete protective measures for its employees — particularly for those who are victims of violence — within its company agreements,” says Léa James, Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Generali Italia. “Through tools such as paid leave for medical appointments, legal proceedings, or other activities related to domestic abuse, up to six months of leave for colleagues in protection programs, and psychological support, we strive to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment, extending protection beyond the company itself. Our people must always feel safe.”

This commitment has not gone unnoticed. In November 2023, Generali became the first insurance company in Italy to obtain gender equality certification from RINA, a multinational certification body operating in over 70 countries. With this recognition, RINA acknowledged the company’s longstanding dedication to gender equality policies.

Generali has also launched many collaborations with associations and foundations working in the communities where it operates — including Fondazione Libellula, Pari, PARKS Liberi e Uguali, and Valore D. In particular, Generali supports DonneXStrada, a non-profit organization dedicated to combating violence against women and promoting safety in public spaces. Since 2024, a project has turned 53 of the company’s agencies into Punti Viola (“Purple Points”) — listening and support spaces where victims of violence can receive immediate assistance and guidance toward the appropriate services. This initiative represents an additional tool to enhance community safety and well-being, strengthening Generali’s connection to local areas and laying the foundations for a more aware corporate culture on issues of violence and respect.