Over the past twelve months, the topic of demography and the related shortage of workers for the required profiles has been increasingly discussed—an issue that has direct implications for the human resources available to our companies. Recently, the report “Demography and the Workforce” was published by CNEL—the National Council for Economy and Labour—edited by demographer Alessandro Rosina. It shows that employment is increasing among men over 45, https://www.cnel.it/Comunicazione-e-Stampa/Notizie/ArtMID/1174/ArticleID/4658/DEMOGRAFIA-E-FORZA-LAVORO, while young people and women are struggling. This trend is not just about numbers and statistics; it is a phenomenon with deep effects on our society and local economy.

A personal and universal problem

Allow me to share a personal experience to clarify what I’m talking about. I have two young children: one lives in Luxembourg, while the other is considering an experience abroad. Both love our country, but they know that professional and economic growth opportunities here are limited. And it’s not an easy choice: they make it with heavy hearts, fully aware that they are leaving behind family, friends, and cultural roots.

When talking with other young people, I notice a constant: many have had poor work experiences, often characterized by precarious contracts, lack of growth prospects, and inadequate pay. This leads them to see little future in Italy, and more and more often, they choose to go elsewhere to seek better opportunities.

The impact on companies

This youth exodus affects not only families but also businesses. More and more entrepreneurs I speak with face a shortage of available and motivated talent. The difficulty in finding new human resources is not just a matter of specific skills: it is the result of a system that struggles to retain young people and nurture them in the long term.

The situation is worsened by the demographic decline: fewer young people means fewer entering the workforce, creating ever more intense competition among companies to attract and retain top talent. How can we reverse this trend?

A survey for a better future

I hope this article serves as a starting point for shared reflection. I am addressing entrepreneurs, managers, professionals, and young people: it is time to join forces to find creative and sustainable solutions.

What actions can we take to make our region more attractive to young people? How can we build an economic system that values people, offers stability and growth, and restores trust in the future?

I invite you to share your ideas and experiences in the comments. This is a topic that concerns all of us, and only through dialogue can we find new ways to tackle one of the greatest challenges of our time.

Let’s make the future an opportunity, not a threat. I look forward to hearing your thoughts!