EtnaForum launches in Sicily to discuss regional future

The second edition of EtnaForum has launched in Ragalna, Sicily, serving as a political and cultural platform to discuss the future of the region and the Mezzogiorno. The event features high-profile participants, including Sicilian Regional President Renato Schifani and Senator Daniela Santanché.

During the forum, Senator Santanché outlined the ‘Etna 2030’ project, an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming the area into an international festival destination similar to Salzburg or Spoleto. The proposal includes a month-long series of debates, music, cinema, and gastronomic events to create economic value and employment. To unify the efforts of twenty local municipalities, the project suggests implementing an ‘EtnaCard’ to encourage longer tourist stays and cohesive regional identity.

The forum also addresses the economic potential of the volcano, focusing on tourism, scientific research, and the promotion of local excellence such as volcanic wines, pistachios, and ceramics.