Challenges to re-empower young people and make territories viable

The strong presence of Neet (young people not working but not even in training), although decreasing, is in this sense one of the most critical indicators. It is a condition that does not only produce economic fragility. It also reduces the ability to imagine the future as an open space of possibilities. When there is no, unstable or low-skilled work, all other transitions become more difficult: leaving one's family of origin, building one's own autonomy in housing, forming a family, investing in oneself.

The picture, however, is not only negative. Many southern provinces are characterised by: strong family networks; strong intergenerational support; dense social relations; a sense of territorial belonging. These are aspects that help reduce individual vulnerability and social isolation. However, on their own they are not enough. If they are not also associated with concrete opportunities for professional and personal growth, they run the risk of becoming, above all, instruments to compensate for structural deficiencies.

It is then interesting to note how various southern provinces stand out from the surrounding context. This happens, in particular, where there are in various combinations: attractive universities; territorial production systems; tourism capacity; good urban quality; solid infrastructure connections. The territorial divide is not, therefore, an inevitable fate. Conditions can improve when an area manages to enhance its specificities and build a favourable environment for young people.

On the opposite side, the large cities of the North continue to be strongly attractive, but the data show that this does not automatically coincide with widespread inclusive well-being. Milan and Turin, for example, are in the middle of the overall youth ranking.

The value of the system of indicators presented in these pages is above all to show that the differences between provinces do not only reflect different levels of economic development. Above all, they express different capacities to transform the territory into a space of opportunity, trust and planning.

At stake is not only the well-being of new generations, but the very ability of territories to continue to be viable, innovative and socially sustainable in an ever-changing world.