Italy’s ageing population and low fertility trigger policy debate

Italy is confronting a structural demographic shift marked by a rapidly ageing society and a historic drop in fertility. The ISTAT report shows the fertility rate fell to a record low of 1.14 children per woman and the proportion of people over 65 reached 14.8 million, making Italy the oldest EU country. Regional data from Liguria highlight the challenge, with 444 000 residents aged 65 + and a high share of centenarians, prompting local plans for active ageing and community‑based welfare.

Policy responses discussed at the Adnkronos “La demografia cambia la società” conference include new ministerial measures: direct cash transfers such as the “assegno unico”, expanded parental leave, and increased funding for childcare facilities. The government also aims to strengthen pension sustainability and retain young talent. Foundations and industry groups are stepping in – Fondazione Cariplo has allocated €20 million to the “Anita – L’infanzia prima” programme to improve early‑childhood services, while Banca Mediolanum’s Roberto De Agostini calls for greater financial education to support families over longer horizons. Pediatric experts warn that reduced fertility and excessive screen time threaten children’s development, urging incentives and early‑life digital‑use limits. Collectively, these initiatives seek to reshape Italy’s welfare model to address the twin pressures of an ageing populace and declining births.