by InTrieste
Interviews: FVG Governor Massimiliano Fedriga; FVG councilor for Higher Education and Research Alessia Rosolen
In a region long marked by demographic decline and an aging population, Friuli Venezia Giulia has reached the highest number of employed individuals in its history, regional officials announced Monday at an annual labor market conference in Trieste.
“Despite the aging of the population, we’ve achieved the highest absolute number of employed people ever recorded in Friuli Venezia Giulia,” said Governor Massimiliano Fedriga. “This means our region has become highly attractive — and we are confident it will become even more so.”
Speaking at the event titled “Strategies and Labor Policies for an Attractive Territory,” Mr. Fedriga credited recent policy efforts aimed at workforce training, gender equality, and international recruitment. Also present was Regional Labor Councillor Alessia Rosolen.
Among the key achievements noted was a sharp reduction in the gender employment gap, historically a challenge in both the region and the broader national context.
Mr. Fedriga emphasized the need for continuous training to respond to rapid shifts in the labor market. “One of the main priorities today is lifelong learning, which also prepares people for radical career changes,” he said. “The second challenge is attracting professionals with the right skills.”
He cited a partnership between Confindustria Alto Adriatico and Ghana, where workers are trained before arriving in Italy to meet local industry demands. Similar initiatives are being explored with Brazil and Argentina.
“As a region, we are ready to invest in training programs in those countries to promote managed — not uncontrolled — immigration,” he said. “This way, newcomers arrive with real opportunities, not as a burden. We can also engage our communities abroad, who are already rooted in those areas, as active partners in this process.”
Workplace safety is also a growing priority. “We must improve the culture of safety while leveraging new technologies,” the governor said. “Collaboration with professional associations will be key to reducing workplace accidents.”
While the employment numbers mark a milestone, regional leaders acknowledged that continued investment in education, innovation, and international cooperation will be crucial to sustaining Friuli Venezia Giulia’s labor market strength in the years to come.
