Italy’s Deputy PM Links Birthrate Decline to Future Migration Needs

(MENAFN) Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani has suggested that increasing the country’s birthrate could reduce the need for foreign labor in the future, as Italy continues to face a worsening demographic decline, according to reports.

Speaking at a labor-focused event in Rome, Tajani highlighted that Italy’s fertility rate has fallen to record lows, well below the level required to maintain a stable population. He warned that continued demographic decline would make it increasingly difficult for businesses to find workers without relying on migration.

He argued that if Italy succeeds in boosting the number of births, the country could gradually reduce its dependence on migrant labor. However, he also noted that without such demographic improvements, foreign workers would remain essential to sustaining the economy.

The minister acknowledged the scale of the challenge but did not present a specific policy plan to increase fertility rates or outline a timeline for potential demographic recovery.

His remarks drew criticism from opposition figures, who described the comments as unrealistic and accused the government of failing to address structural issues behind Italy’s declining population. Critics argued that broader European cooperation, rather than national policy alone, is needed to address labor shortages and demographic pressures.

Italy has one of the lowest fertility rates in Europe, and its population has been aging steadily for years, raising concerns about long-term economic sustainability and workforce shortages.

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