Franco Lenarduzzi Calls for Radical Economic Turnaround in Friuli Venezia Giulia

Franco Lenarduzzi, president of the Democratic Party in Friuli Venezia Giulia and mayor of Ruda, warned that the region’s economy is stagnating. He said the regional GDP is flat and FVG has fallen to 17th place nationally, with projected growth of only 2.5% for 2024‑2028 – less than half of previous administrations. Lenarduzzi blamed “rain‑spending” and an over‑reliance on tourism (4% of GDP) while industry, which generates over 60% of output, is being neglected.

He urged a “radical, non‑postponable” shift in policy, proposing to attract foreign workers, encourage the return of expatriate youth, and refocus on industry by attracting new firms and supporting local ones. Specific measures include revitalising the Aussa‑Corno area, creating a regional childcare plan and an integrated elderly‑care plan linked to second‑level hospitals, and reforming institutional structures beyond merely reinstating former provinces.