Seven million three hundred thousand Italians chose to live outside Italy. The data, revealed last week, it's official. But behind the number, there's a question that echoes in every Italian community abroad: why do so many choose to leave?
The answer involves economic, political, and identity-based layers. Part of this recent diaspora is motivated not only by the search for employment, but also by disillusionment. Italians born in Italy, the so-called "class A," and their descendants, often treated as "second-class Italians," today share the same desire: to start over or to stay away from a country that seems to have closed itself off to them.
Between pride and abandonment
The current Italian government, led by Giorgia Meloni, reinforces national pride but pays little attention to those living abroad. While celebrating "Italianness," it ignores the needs of those who build that identity abroad.
In practice, there are cuts to consular services, severe restrictions on citizenship processes, and a lack of effective integration policies. Citizens of the so-called "B class"—descendants of Italians, born abroad—face institutional distrust, as if they were less legitimate.
This reflects a growing sense of alienation. Many report feeling valued only when it's convenient, as consumers of Italian products. Otherwise, they feel invisible.
Internal rejection, external acceptance
In recent years, countries like Portugal, Spain, Ireland, and Australia have welcomed qualified young Italians, tired of the precarious conditions in Italy. Alongside them are Italian descendants who, after obtaining citizenship, decide not to return to their grandparents' country of origin.
The difference? Far from Italy, they find opportunities, acceptance, and recognition. Italy, however, often treats them with bureaucracy and indifference.
Instead of investing in the strength of this diaspora, the government chooses to ignore its potential. The result is paradoxical: a country that loses talent but doesn't bring it back.
The future of Italian identity
Italy currently has more than 7 million citizens abroad. They are no exception; they are part of the country's present and future.
It's important to understand that Italians, both inside and outside, share the same desire for dignity. And that Italianness isn't just about the territory, but about the human, cultural, and emotional connections that endure—even from a distance. Only Meloni doesn't see this.
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