The departure of Italians abroad is an old phenomenon, but it has taken on a new profile. Between 2023 and 2024, of the 270 citizens who registered a move abroad, around 87 will be naturalized. (1 in 3) — people born abroad but who acquired the Italian citizenship. The data comes from the Centro Studi e Ricerche IDOS, based on figures from the Italian National Institute of Statistics (Istat).
The trend highlights a problem that goes beyond economics. These young people, many of whom are children of immigrants, grew up in Italy, studied in Italian schools and speak the local language. Yet they do not feel recognized as Italians.
“Even though they were born and raised here, they continue to be treated as foreigners. This leads them to prefer countries with more mature and multicultural societies,” explains Antonio Ricci, vice-president of IDOS.
Discrimination motivates departure
The decision to leave is not just for employment. Many report difficulties in having their citizenship recognized and, even when they do, they face prejudice. Some feel like second-class citizens, frustrating the integration plans of their parents, who migrated in search of a better future.
Destination choices vary depending on origin. According to IDOS, 45% of Africans choose France, taking advantage of the language and cultural ties. Among Asians, such as Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis, 72% migrate to the United Kingdom. South Americans, on the other hand, are divided between returning to their country of origin (54%) or seeking new opportunities in Spain (16%).
Missed opportunity
For the researcher, the lack of social and political recognition makes these young people take their talents abroad. Many have a high level of education, speak more than one language and have accumulated international experience.
Without effective inclusion policies, Italy loses qualified professionals who excel in academic, creative and digital sectors in the destination countries. It is a silent but significant loss for a rapidly aging society.
“Without symbolic, emotional and political recognition, even successful paths fall apart in the face of a profound feeling of exclusion,” warns Ricci.
For the elderly, going out becomes a form of personal affirmation and also of resistance. In other countries, these young people feel that they are not judged by their origin or appearance, but valued for their skills.
This trend is a signal to the Italian authorities. If the country does not create conditions for real belonging, it risks continuing to export brains that could boost the economy and strengthen a more plural society.
Populism and lack of connection
In addition to social exclusion, populist policies such as those advocated by Antonio Tajani, current Minister of Foreign Affairs, reinforce the distancing. The discourse that devalues the Italian-descendant community does not build bridges with those who could maintain emotional ties with the country.
In practice, the result is clear: now, not even those who have been naturalized want to maintain ties with Italy. For many, staying no longer makes sense. Leaving is a way of gaining respect that, on Italian soil, seems increasingly distant.
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