University of Groningen Hosts Public Academy on Fight Against the Mafia
During the Netherlands-wide Rule of Law Week, the University of Groningen will host a special event at Forum focused on Italy’s fight against the mafia.
As the Netherlands prepares for Rule of Law Week (September 9–16, 2025), an annual showcase where sixteen key institutions open their doors to the public, the University of Groningen is taking the chance to host a special event: Italy’s Fight Against the Mafia. This Public Academy session brings vital lessons from Italy’s legacy of courage and legal reform right into the heart of Groningen, and in English, no less.
Between September 9 and 16, institutions across the country - courts, advocacy organisations and universities invite the public to engage more deeply with the Dutch constitutional system. Activities range from mock trials and interactive quizzes to debates and exhibitions aimed at reinforcing trust in the legal system.
Spotlight: A Conversation on Judicial Courage
On Saturday, September 13, Forum Groningen will host a thought-provoking evening: a local premiere screening of Falcone e Borsellino – Il fuoco della memoria. This documentary honours the lives of Italian magistrates Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, whose courageous push against the Sicilian Mafia reshaped judicial practice in the 1990s.
The documentary will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Dr. Laura Peters (University of Groningen), the prominent expert on class dynamics in legal systems, and Antonio Balsamo, former president of the Palermo court, plus other national and international voices. Topics include witness protection, judicial bravery, and maintaining the rule of law in the face of organised crime, and notably, the entire program is conducted in English. Entrance is free, but space is limited.
Why This Matters
Lessons in Resilience: Italy’s judicial reforms following horrific violence, brought on by fearless judges and courageous witnesses, demonstrate how legal systems can adapt and fortify against corruption.
Civic Dialogue: Pairing public events with film and expert panels promotes trust and transparency: key components of a healthy democracy.
Relevance to the Netherlands: while not dominated by organised crime, the Netherlands still faces challenges like eroding trust in institutions. This event reminds us that a proactive, educated society is the best defence.
As Rule of Law Week unfolds, this event marks a powerful moment of reflection: democracy thrived not by luck, but through steadfast institutions and brave people. It’s a chance for the Netherlands to absorb Italy’s successes and strengthen its own commitment to justice.