Italy advances differentiated autonomy through regional agreements

The Italian government has signed an agreement with the presidents of four northern regions to implement differentiated autonomy under Article 116, paragraph III of the Constitution. This agreement transfers specific functions to these regions, including areas such as healthcare, civil protection, professions, and public finance coordination.

Critics and analysts note that these transferred functions are not legislative powers but rather residual administrative roles. While the regions may regulate the procedures for implementing these functions, national laws will continue to provide the primary regulatory framework.

There are concerns regarding the economic and administrative impact of this decentralization. While much of the debate focuses on the potential loss of resources in southern Italy, northern regions like Veneto, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna also face risks. Without adequate Essential Levels of Performance (LEP), equalization mechanisms, and sufficient administrative capacity, these regions may inherit financial and management responsibilities that exceed their current capabilities. Experts warn that decentralization only yields efficiency if accompanied by clear competencies, efficient monitoring systems, and robust administrative structures to prevent overlapping responsibilities.