All EU countries (except Denmark) recognise the decisions of courts in other EU states with regard to matters pertaining to parental responsibility. However, where more than one country is involved, it is the courts in the country which is the child's 'habitual place of residence' which have jurisdiction. That means that your friend needs to seek a court order in Italy.
Italian law is summarised here:
http://ec.europa.eu/c...ental_resp_ita_en.htm
There are Italian solicitors based in the Uk who may be able to assist. This might be a good starting point:
http://www.contactlaw.co.uk/italy.html
Alternatively, google for ''avoccato London", "avvocato UK", "avocato Londra", etc.
Chris