Italy's INPS report reveals widening gender pension gap and rising retirement age

The 2025‑2026 INPS annual report shows a record 27.2 million insured workers in Italy, but highlights persistent gender inequalities. Women’s average pension is roughly 25 % lower than men’s and the average retirement age has risen to 64.7 years. A statutory increase linked to life‑ expectancy will push the pensionable age to 67 years and one month from 2027.

The report also finds that direct cash transfers such as the Universal Single Allowance have not boosted female employment and may even reduce it, while the “motherhood penalty”, part‑time work and career interruptions continue to fragment women’s work histories. Labour minister Marina Calderone confirmed the planned age rise and called for stronger protection for workers in physically demanding occupations.