“Digital and green transitions are not enough. We need a demographic one too,” says Italy’s Family Minister
A crisis with no European strategy
The decline in birthrates is not just a family issue, but a cross-cutting emergency with serious consequences for healthcare, innovation, and the environment. Speaking via video at the 26th edition of Salute Direzione Nord, Italian Minister Eugenia Maria Roccella accused the EU of neglecting this key issue. “Europe has invested a lot in green and digital transitions,” she said, “but there is no commitment to generational and demographic transition.”
Depopulation hurts the environment too
Roccella pointed out that rural areas are being emptied, and this depopulation harms the environment too. “If no one is there to take care of the territory, nature is left unmanaged,” she warned. Demographics and sustainability are deeply linked, yet the connection is often overlooked.
Healthcare and innovation are at risk
With fewer young people and an ageing population, healthcare systems face increasing pressure, and innovation stallswithout generational turnover. Minister Roccella stressed the urgency of coordinated EU action: “We need a European policy, just like we have for climate or digital transformation.”
Gender equality certification: a bright spot
There is some good news, though. Roccella celebrated a remarkable achievement: “According to the PNRR, we were supposed to certify 800 companies for gender equality. By the end of this year, we’ll reach almost 8,000.” It’s a sign that Italian companies are embracing a more inclusive work culture, which also contributes to making parenthood and careers more compatible.
FAQ
1. What is Minister Roccella’s main message?
That Europe is failing to address the birthrate crisis.
2. Why is low birthrate a problem for Europe?
It affects healthcare, innovation, environmental balance, and social welfare systems.
3. What is a demographic transition?
A shift that restores generational balance between young and old in a population.
4. How is environment linked to birthrate?
Depopulated rural areas lose human care and land preservation, harming ecosystems.
5. Is this only an Italian issue?
No, it’s a concern across many EU countries with below-replacement fertility rates.
6. What is gender certification for companies?
A recognition for businesses that meet certain standards of gender equality.
7. Why is gender equality important in this context?
It helps create workplaces that support women, especially working mothers.
8. Has Italy met its goals for gender certification?
It has far exceeded them, reaching 10 times the initial target set by the PNRR.
9. What should the EU do about birthrate decline?
Design a coordinated strategy and invest in family-friendly, inclusive policies.
10. What’s the link between innovation and demographics?
Young generations are essential for progress, workforce renewal, and creativity.
Leave a Reply