The Village Will Die' - Italy Looks for Answers to the Decline in the Number of Babies

Italy is facing a declining birth rate and a booming population of elderly citizens. This combination poses a threat to the country's economic and social future, prompting a search for answers.

The Village Will Die'

The headlines from Sicily say it all: one town predicts that "the village will die" if the government doesn't do something about the country's low birth rate. Italy is not unique in its demographic challenges, but its aging population poses a significant threat to the country's future.

A Booming Population of Elderly Citizens

The average age of Italians has been increasing year after year. According to the Italian National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT), in 2021, almost a quarter of the population was aged 65 or older, while the average age was 46.3 years. Moreover, Italy's population is projected to shrink by nearly a fifth by 2070.

The Economic and Social Threat

This aging population and declining birth rate combination poses a twofold threat. It could accelerate the decline of rural communities and small towns as the younger generation seeks opportunities in more populated areas. It also means fewer workers supporting a growing number of elderly citizens.

Seeking Solutions

The government is looking at various options to encourage growth and counter this potential crisis. From tax incentives to boost birth rates to initiatives that encourage families to have children, policymakers are scrambling for a solution to ensure the country's economic and social future.