Emilia Romagna migration trends address demographic risks

Recent reports highlight the critical role of migration in maintaining the demographic and economic stability of the Emilia Romagna region in Italy. According to the 2026 immigration statistical dossier, approximately 600,000 foreign citizens reside in the region, representing nearly 13% of the total population. These residents provide essential contributions to sectors including agriculture, construction, logistics, tourism, industry, and care work.

Filippo Pieri, the regional general secretary of Cisl, described immigration as a structural component of the regional economy rather than a temporary emergency. He argued that migration presents an opportunity that requires effective governance and investment in training to ensure social and professional integration. Pieri also dismissed the concept of remigration as populism.

Further data from the Provincial Demographic Observatory suggests that migration is vital to preventing severe population decline. Projections indicate that without migratory flows, the province could lose over 91,000 residents by 2045, returning to population levels seen in 1998. The reports also note a progressive aging of the population, with those over 65 expected to represent nearly 30% of the total population by 2045.