The Shifting Landscape of Domestic Work in Italy: Understanding its Impact on the Economy and Welfare System

Domestic work is an essential component of Italy’s socioeconomic fabric, especially as the population ages and the need for support in terms of social security, insurance, and healthcare increases. The president of INPS, Gabriele Fava, highlighted the significance of this type of work in Italy, stating that it plays a crucial role in the country’s welfare system and economy.

According to a report presented by INPS, there were 833,874 domestic workers contributing to the system in 2023. Of these workers, 50% were caregivers. The report also revealed interesting demographic trends among domestic workers. There has been a decrease in the number of younger workers and an increase in the proportion of older workers. Additionally, there has been a decline in the overall number of domestic workers compared to previous years.

Furthermore, both male and female workers have been affected by this decline. The data showed a growing trend of female workers in the sector, with foreign workers making up the majority of the workforce. In terms of geographical distribution, Eastern Europe was identified as the region with the highest number of domestic workers.

These findings underscored the importance of understanding how domestic work is changing within Italy’s evolving economy and social welfare system. As such, it is crucial to continue studying this field to ensure that it continues to play a vital role in supporting Italy’s future generations.