On the occasion of the passing of Dr. Sassoli and following the publication of a message on social networks by Prof. Becchi, the University took steps on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 to disseminate, to the media and on the same social networks, the following note:

«In expressing condolences for the passing of President Sassoli, the University of Genoa dutifully distances itself from the contents of Prof. Paolo Becchi's tweet (11.01.2022), specifying that these are strictly personal opinions and not shared by the Institution.

The University wishes in fact to emphasize that, as a seat of knowledge and research, strictly adheres to scientific evidence: in this case, all in favor of the validity and the increasingly urgent need for a widespread vaccination campaign that brings the country and the lives of all towards normality and renewed productivity».

On January 12, 2022, the Council of the Department of Law unanimously resolved the following:

«The Department of Law of the University of Genoa expresses deep outrage at the message formulated by Prof. Paolo Becchi commenting on the untimely death of Dr. David Sassoli, President of the European Parliament. It expresses its dismay in front of contents not in accordance with the respect for people and facts that should inform the work of a university professor even outside academic contexts. It reserves the right to take any appropriate initiative to protect its reputation and to ensure its educational role».