Italy labor market sees record employment amid safety concerns

Italy's labor market shows mixed results for the first half of 2026. According to Istat data, employment reached record levels, with approximately 24.4 million people employed in the second quarter. This growth is driven largely by permanent contracts and independent workers, though a gender gap persists, particularly in regions like Friuli Venezia Giulia where male employment significantly outpaces female employment.

Political debate is intensifying regarding female employment. The governing majority emphasizes recent gains in female participation, while the opposition calls for more robust policies like equal parental leave. Additionally, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti has proposed tax incentives for companies that increase salaries for young workers as part of the 2027 budget planning.

However, workplace safety remains a critical concern. The Vega Observatory reported 595 workplace-related deaths in the first seven months of 2026. While this represents a slight 2% decrease from 2025, experts warn that the decline is insufficient given the rising number of reported accidents. Vulnerable groups, including workers over 65 and foreign nationals, remain at higher risk, with several regions such as Calabria, Sicily, and Liguria classified in the ‘red zone’ for high accident incidence.