How do you say "sexist" in Italian? Berlusconi. At least that's what a group of female academics in Italy think. They're urging wives of male G8 leaders to stay home from the G8 conference to be hosted by Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi next month in Italy.

While the Obamas offer Americans at least a picture of marital bliss, Italians are being treated to a messy divorce. Since Berlusconi's wife of 20 years Veronica Lario filed for divorce in April, a colorful series of allegations about his love life and treatment of women have come out. The 72-year-old leader, who has had his fair share of other scandals including countless criminal trials, has been accused of having an affair with an 18-year-old and hiring paid escorts. Of course, he denies any "spicy" relations.

The academics also call into question Berlusconi's attempt to appoint showgirls, actresses, and a Big Brother contestant as candidates in the European elections.

Perhaps the first wives will attend, if only so their husbands have less free time to spend with their Italian host.