Fondazione con il Sud Celebrates 20 Years and Tackles Demographic Decline
The foundation launches the Sud Vivo project to combat Southern Italy's population crisis.
1Two Decades of Impact
Fondazione con il Sud celebrated its twentieth anniversary in Naples at the Donnaregina Monumental Complex. Over two decades, the organization supported over 2,000 initiatives involving 6,700 third-sector entities. These efforts resulted in 4,500 job placements and the management of 110 confiscated assets, marking a significant milestone for Southern Italy's social development.
2Presidential Call for Stability
President Sergio Mattarella attended the event, emphasizing the importance of regional retention. He stated that individuals born in the South should have the freedom to remain, return, or arrive from elsewhere. This vision serves as a key development strategy for the entire nation, highlighting the vital role of local community workers.
3Rising Demographic Concerns
Public concern regarding depopulation is surging, with 73% of Italians now viewing it as a priority issue, a 13-point increase since March 2025. Data from the Demopolis Institute indicates that 8 out of 10 Italians are worried about declining birth rates, reflecting a widespread awareness of the country's shrinking demographic future.
4Projected Population Contraction
Istat data reveals that the Mezzogiorno lost approximately 730,000 residents between 2001 and 2023. Projections for 2080 suggest a potential loss of 8 million inhabitants, with a severe contraction in youth populations. This trend threatens the long-term economic and social sustainability of the region unless significant structural interventions are implemented immediately.
5Strategies for Regional Growth
Surveys indicate that 69% of Italians believe job creation is the most effective tool to combat depopulation. Other preferred solutions include fiscal incentives for youth, improved public transportation, and enhanced social services. A majority of citizens favor collaborative regeneration projects involving institutions, private businesses, and the social sector rather than government-only.
6The Sud Vivo Initiative
The new Sud Vivo report highlights stories of communities actively resisting decline through innovation and social organization. Foundation president Stefano Consiglio noted that many regions are now working to create employment opportunities. These efforts aim to attract talent from the North, proving that the South can be a hub for development.
7Resource Gaps and Appeals
The 2025 'Riabitare il Sud' initiative received 57 applications but could only fund four due to budget constraints. With 8 million euros invested, the foundation seeks to partner with banking and family foundations to support the remaining 50 projects. Expanding these resources is essential to prevent the loss of valuable local strategies.
8Success Through Community Action
The Rione Sanità district in Naples serves as a model for urban and social redevelopment. Projects like the Catacombe di San Gennaro have provided stable employment for 130 people, transforming heritage into economic value. These initiatives demonstrate that local community-led regeneration can successfully provide hope and stability for future generations.