For Sara Bianco, the tragedy that struck on a spring afternoon two years ago has not only been a journey of profound grief but has now evolved into a stark legal battle over the definition of family. As the families of the victims of the Suviana hydroelectric plant explosion continue to demand truth and justice, a recent court ruling in Milan has ignited a debate over whether Italy’s legal framework is failing to protect modern partnerships.
The conflict centers on the denial of financial compensation to Ms. Bianco, the long-term partner of Alessandro D’Andrea, one of the seven people who perished in the disaster. Despite a relationship spanning over a decade, a Milan court recently rejected her request for compensation on the sole basis that the couple was not legally married, leaving Ms. Bianco with zero euros in damages .
This ruling comes at a fragile moment for the survivors and bereaved families, who marked the second anniversary of the tragedy with commemorations in Suviana. For the D’Andrea family, the court’s decision is not merely a financial loss but a refusal to recognize the reality of their loved one’s life and the emotional bond he shared with his partner.
The Tragedy at the Enel Green Power Plant
The events that led to this legal impasse occurred on April 9, 2024, when a catastrophic explosion ripped through the Enel Green Power hydroelectric plant in Bargi . The blast claimed the lives of seven individuals, including 36-year-old Alessandro D’Andrea. Originally from Forcoli (Pisa), Mr. D’Andrea had been residing in Milan with Ms. Bianco at the time of his death.
For two years, the families of the victims have navigated a void of answers, seeking clarity on the causes of the explosion and accountability for the loss of life. The D’Andrea family—including Alessandro’s father Daniele, mother Carla, and sister Federica—have remained steadfast in their pursuit of justice, assisted by legal counsel Gabriele Bordoni .
A Legal Clash: Tradition vs. Modern Cohabitation
The denial of compensation to Sara Bianco highlights a systemic tension within the Italian judicial system regarding more uxorio (cohabitation). Ms. Bianco and Mr. D’Andrea had lived together for 11 to 12 years, having moved to Milan in 2012 . While the court acknowledged that she was “part of the family” for the purposes of other considerations, it ultimately ruled that she was “only the cohabitant, not the wife” .
Attorney Gabriele Bordoni argues that this ruling relies on a legal philosophy from 1965—a time when marriage was often viewed as indissoluble and cohabitation was rare. Bordoni contends that the world has transformed radically in the six decades since, noting that cohabitations in Italy have tripled in just four years, rising from approximately 440,000 to over 1.75 million, while marriage rates continue to decline .
The legal team asserts that the judge missed a critical opportunity to refer the matter to the Constitutional Court. Such a referral could have evaluated the case in light of Law 76 of 2016, which was designed to regulate and provide protections for cohabiting couples .
The Human Impact and the Call for Justice
Beyond the legal technicalities, the case is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Suviana disaster. Sara Bianco described Alessandro as “the other half of my soul,” recalling a relationship where a single glance was often enough for communication .
The D’Andrea family has expressed deep regret over the court’s decision, stating through their lawyer that the ruling represents a missed opportunity to advance the “juridical civilization” of the country . They argue that assigning stability to a bond based solely on a marriage certificate ignores the actual lived experience and commitment of millions of couples.
Key Legal Points in the Suviana Compensation Dispute
| Legal Basis | Context/Era | Application in Case |
|---|---|---|
| 1965 Legal Precedent | Traditional family structure | Used by the court to deny compensation to non-married partners. |
| Law 76 of 2016 | Modern cohabitation (more uxorio) | Cited by the defense as the basis for recognizing partner rights. |
| Milan Court Ruling | April 2026 | Determined that “cohabitant” status does not equal “spouse” for compensation. |
What Happens Next
The legal battle is far from over. Attorney Gabriele Bordoni has expressed a firm determination to file an appeal, not only for the benefit of Sara Bianco and the D’Andrea family but for all victims of similar tragedies who find themselves excluded from compensation due to their marital status .
The families continue to call for a comprehensive investigation into the Enel Green Power plant explosion, insisting that the passage of 24 months without definitive answers is unacceptable. The next phase of the legal process will likely focus on whether the higher courts will acknowledge the evolution of social bonds and the protections afforded by the 2016 legislation.
Do you believe legal systems should automatically equate long-term cohabitation with marriage for compensation purposes? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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