The disappearance of youth: fragility and potential of a generation in search of itself

Italy and Europe are in an advanced demographic transition, marked by an aging population and shrinking youth cohorts. The “disappearance of youth” is not just quantitative – fewer births and young people – but a process impacting life trajectories, opportunity distribution, and intergenerational balance. This contraction in numbers risks symbolic and political marginalization: fewer young people means less weight in decision-making and political agenda.

Simultaneously, new generations face a transformed landscape in terms of risks and opportunities. Digitalization expands global networks but can weaken face-to-face relationships. The labor market offers flexibility yet suffers from precariousness and difficult long-term planning. Consequently, expectations shift: while focus on quality of life and well-being grows, as well as the search for meaning in work, the ability to turn desires into concrete projects—like starting a family or transitioning to adulthood—becomes more uncertain.

In this complex global context, reducing fragility and developing potential requires fostering local environments that encourage active participation, intergenerational cooperation, shared practices and the building of trust networks.

Alessandro ROSINA | Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Cycle of Seminars: “Solitude and Communion in Religion and Ethics“

Scientific coordination: Massimo Leone, FBK-ISR

The speaker will connect remotely.

The event, organized by FBK’s Center for Religious Studies, will be held in Italian.

The event will be in-person in the FBK Aula Piccola, while seats last, and online.

Registration by March 27, 2026 at 12:00 a.m. is required so as to arrange the connection.

***
Image: AdobeStock_518968971