A new initiative launched in 2026 aims to better understand the experiences of young Italians living abroad and to bring their voices into national policy discussions. The project, titled “Young Expats: Giving Voice to the Agents of Change,” is promoted by Italy’s National Council for Economics and Labor in collaboration with the General Council of Italians Abroad.
The program focuses on Italians between the ages of 18 and 35 who are currently studying or working outside the country. This demographic represents a growing and increasingly influential segment of the Italian diaspora, often described as a key driver of innovation, mobility, and cultural exchange.
At the core of the initiative is a nationwide survey designed to collect firsthand accounts from young expats. Participants are asked to complete a short online questionnaire – typically requiring less than 5 minutes – covering socio-demographic data, motivations for leaving Italy, and their professional or academic experiences abroad.
In addition to the survey, participants can submit a one-minute video testimonial. These short clips are intended to provide a more personal and direct narrative, allowing contributors to describe what pushed them to move abroad, what opportunities they have found, and what conditions might encourage them to return to Italy in the future.
The collaboration between the two institutions reflects a broader effort to strengthen connections between Italy and its global community. The General Council of Italians Abroad – established in 1989 as an advisory body to the government and Parliament – plays a central role in representing the interests of Italian communities worldwide.
Through its international network, including local committees across different countries, the council is helping distribute the survey and engage participants across multiple continents. The goal is to reach as many young Italians as possible and ensure that the data collected reflects a wide range of experiences and perspectives.
One of the main objectives of the project is to move beyond the traditional narrative of “brain drain.” Instead of viewing youth migration solely as a loss, the initiative seeks to highlight its potential benefits – including knowledge exchange, international networking, and innovation.
By analyzing the responses, policymakers hope to identify concrete measures that could make Italy more attractive to younger generations. These may include improved career opportunities, stronger support for entrepreneurship, and policies that facilitate return migration or ongoing collaboration with Italians abroad.
The initiative also aims to build a more structured dialogue between institutions and young expats. Creating a community where participants can stay connected with Italian institutions is seen as a key step toward long-term engagement.
Ultimately, the project represents an effort to better align public policy with the realities of a highly mobile generation. With thousands of young Italians choosing to live abroad each year, understanding their motivations and expectations has become essential. The insights gathered through this initiative could help shape future strategies, ensuring that Italy remains competitive and appealing in a globalized world while maintaining strong ties with its citizens overseas.
