Their unwavering stance, dedication to justice, and commitment to citizens' rights contributed to systemic changes in the fight against the mafia, leading to the arrests of mafia leaders who had evaded justice for decades. Thanks to legal reforms and the determination of the judiciary, large-scale trials of Cosa Nostra members took place, with hundreds of individuals tried in a single proceeding. To facilitate this, a special courtroom- the "bunker"-was built inside a Sicilian prison.

Judge Falcone left future generations of lawyers with these words:

"You must fulfill your duty to the very end, regardless of the sacrifice, regardless of the cost, because this is the essence of human dignity."

Judge Borsellino added:

"I know that we all have a moral duty to continue our work, without giving in to the feeling- or even the certainty-that the price may be very high."

This powerful message resonated with our students.

Here are some quotes from their reflections:

"In the fight against an internal enemy like the mafia, society must unite beyond political, class, or religious divisions. The judiciary in a state governed by law must be independent and impartial (…). Confronting an opponent who operates above the law is difficult to win when we choose to adhere to the law. Italy’s fight against the mafia has proven that it is possible to combat it legally, through the rule of law."

"When the state withdraws, the mafia takes its place."

"The mafia infiltrates the economy and operates internationally, which necessitates close cooperation between countries-especially in strengthening financial oversight, combating cybercrime, and money laundering. Despite progress, fear and omerta-the code of silence-still loom over affected regions, showing that the fight against the mafia is a long-term process requiring determination and legal reforms."

"Despite the fight, the mafia remains influential in Italy and worldwide."

"When we are given a task, we should focus on it and not succumb to external pressures."

"The sacrifice of Judges Falcone and Borsellino should not be forgotten. We must carry forward their ideals."

Prof. Aldo Schiavella answered students’ questions on the roots of such phenomena as mafia. The answer goes as deep as evil in human nature.