Basilicata youth labor and agricultural crisis

The Basilicata region is facing challenges regarding youth engagement and workforce readiness. According to the 2026 Confartigianato Youth Friendly Territories Index, Basilicata ranked 15th nationally with a score of 469 points. Rosa Gentile, president of Confartigianato Basilicata, noted that the results indicate a need for an environment where staying in the region is a “viable and convenient choice” through better integration of employment and training.

Further complicating the regional economic outlook is a significant shortage of specialized labor. The craftsmanship sector in Basilicata reports a 62.5% shortage of qualified personnel with green skills. This gap affects industries such as mechanical engineering, construction, and agri-food, as companies struggle to find workers capable of managing energy efficiency and the circular economy.

Adding to these economic pressures, the regional agricultural sector is experiencing a systemic crisis driven by high energy prices, rising production costs, and international competition. Industry representatives from Legacoop Agroalimentare and Cia-Agricoltori Italiani have warned of a potential collapse, particularly affecting wine, rice, and olive oil production.

In response to farmer protests, the Basilicata Regional Government, led by President Vito Bardi, announced a 25 million euro support package. This includes 10 million euros in immediate liquidity for diesel costs, 10 million euros for production costs via European CSR programming, and 5 million euros for natural disaster relief. An additional 7 million euros has been identified to support transport and logistics sectors. However, some agricultural organizations argue the response lacks sufficient long-term structural planning.