On the Phenomenon of Depopulation of Inland Areas

Abstract

The demographic decline of inland areas is a phenomenon that, especially in recent decades, has reached significant dimensions in many European countries and the world. This phenomenon involves about 60% of the Italian territory, especially the South of Italy, which has been living for too many years in conditions of persistent emergency. The aim of this work is not only to highlight the importance of this phenomenon and its serious economic, social, demographic and environmental repercussions, but also to encourage reflection on the appropriate intervention strategies to be implemented. What seems to emerge from a critical analysis of the historical events and investments that have affected the Italian territory, and in particular the South of Italy, is a lack of attention to the knowledge of the places where it is called to intervene. In fact, rather than a shortage of funds or investment, as is often believed, the rapid advancement of the phenomenon is attributable to the absence of a well-structured investment program consistent and compatible with the activities and culture of the local population, as well as keeping pace with the dynamics of the global economy and the technological revolution. The critical analysis conducted is paradigmatic to address and outline actions and intervention strategies for other territorial contexts as well.

R. Gerundo and A. Nesticò—designed the research. All authors contributed to the definition of the methodology. Federica Russo prepared a draft manuscript. All authors enriched the manuscript. Roberto Gerundo and Antonio Nesticò revised the manuscript.