In brief
The picturesque town of Fregona, Italy, is witnessing a significant population decline due to fewer births and migration. Mayor Giacomo de Luca fears the potential closure of the local school, reflecting a nationwide trend of declining birth rates, challenging government efforts to encourage families and highlighting the urgent need for solutions.
Winding down the narrow main street of Fregona, Mayor Giacomo de Luca points to shuttered businesses: supermarkets, a barbershop, and restaurants. Like many towns in Italy, Fregona is experiencing a population exodus as families have fewer kids and seek opportunities elsewhere. Currently, there's uncertainty around the local primary school because only four children are set to enroll, prompting fears of its closure.The population has plummeted almost 20% over the past decade. With just four new births this year out of around 2,700 residents, most are elderly. "If the kids leave to study, they may never return," warns De Luca, who's actively trying to encourage families to stay by offering transportation and after-school care.Italy's demographic crisis extends nationally, with nearly 1.9 million fewer people in the last decade and a birth rate of just 1.18 children per woman—well below the 2.1 required to maintain population stability. Despite government initiatives, new parent Valentina Dottor notes that challenges like work-life balance and childcare access persist, making families hesitant to expand.Local businesses like Irinox are stepping in to help by providing discounted childcare close to work sites. Employee Melania Sandrin found this crucial in managing her career and motherhood but recognizes the broader systemic changes needed to support families fully. Amidst the declining birth rate, there are also tensions regarding school closures, such as the recent shutdown of Pascoli Primary in Treviso, highlighting the further implications of moving populations and varying demographics within the region. As Italy's population continues to age and shrink, many believe that without substantive support for families—beyond financial assistance—the crisis will deepen, perpetuating the struggle to maintain community institutions like schools. “How can we have more babies in this situation?” questions parent Eleanora Franceschi, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems.
