Italy's expected working life falls 4.5 years below EU average

Italy's expected working life has reached 33 years in 2025, according to an analysis by CNA. This figure is 4.5 years below the European Union average of 37.5 years, making it the second lowest in the EU after Romania.

The gap between Italy and the EU average has widened over the last decade. While Italy's expected working life increased from 30.7 to 33 years between 2015 and 2025, the EU average grew from 34.9 to 37.5 years in the same period.

A significant disparity exists regarding gender participation. The expected working life for women in Italy is 28.4 years, compared to the EU average of 35.4 years. This results in a gender gap of 8.9 years, the highest in Europe. Additionally, the female employment rate in Italy remains at 58%, approximately 13 points below the EU average.

Cristiano Cantisani, president of CNA Alto Adige Südtirol, noted that the issue is tied to productivity and participation. He emphasized that in a rapidly aging society, failing to utilize human capital poses a structural limit to economic growth and the sustainability of the pension system. Proposed solutions include targeted policies for youth and female employment, technical education, and support for intergenerational skill transfers.