Youth emigration trends rise in Italy and San Marino

Recent reports highlight growing concerns regarding youth emigration and demographic shifts in Italy and San Marino.

A study by the National Council for Economics and Labour (CNEL) involving over 2,500 respondents indicates that 83% of young Italian expatriates would consider returning to Italy if offered higher salaries and merit-based recognition. The survey, which focused on individuals aged 18 to 34, revealed that 93% of respondents are university graduates. Most participants left Italy immediately after completing their studies, with 87% currently residing in Europe.

In San Marino, the Democratic Confederation of Sammarinese Workers (Cdls) reported a 46.6% increase in the emigration of adults aged 21 to 40 between the periods of 2016–2020 and 2021–2025. While the total population of San Marino is growing due to foreign workers and an influx of residents over 60, young people now make up over 40% of total emigrants. The Cdls emphasizes that addressing this trend requires more than just job opportunities, suggesting a need for better support for maternity, paternity, and general quality of life to encourage young people to remain in the Republic.