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For detailed information on country policy responses to the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020-2021, see our separate COVID-19 Health Systems Response Monitor (HSRM).

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Recent Italian policies target the issue of low birth rates

03 June 2024 | Country Update

Italy continues to grapple with low birth rates, low fertility rates and a high age dependency ratio. Existing policies to address these issues include the 2021 Single and Universal Allowance for dependent children, which offers progressive benefits based on income and child’s age, and the 2022 compulsory 10-day paternity leave to promote gender equality in childcare.

Recently, the Budget Law 2024 allocates 1 billion EUR for family support, including:

For 2024–2026, mothers with three or more children (two or more in 2024) receive an exemption from social security contributions (up to EUR 3000 per year);
Parental leave: for 2024, the second month of parental leave is increased to 80% of pay, available until the child is six years old;
Kindergarden bonus: increased to EUR 3600 for families with an ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator) up to EUR 40 000 and a child under 10.

For more information, please see Policy Analyses from 4 October 2023 and 3 June 2024.